The Aligning Impact Fellowship prepares students to become innovative leaders who understand how to integrate social impact into business strategies, and are interested in fields such as corporate social responsibility and environmental, social, and governance.
The business world is experiencing a significant shift towards prioritizing social impact alongside profitability, a trend underscored by the rising prominence of concepts like corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. Companies such as Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s have set powerful examples by successfully aligning their profit motives with a commitment to social and environmental causes. This movement reflects a broader recognition that sustainable business practices can drive long-term success and resilience.
The Aligning Impact Fellowship teaches students how businesses can contribute positively to society. As the future of work evolves, there is a growing demand for leaders who are not only skilled in business acumen but also deeply aware of their civic responsibilities. This fellowship will prepare students to become innovative leaders who understand how to integrate social impact into business strategies, fostering a generation that is well-equipped to tackle both market challenges and societal needs. By embedding these values into their education, CCNY students will be at the forefront of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
Led by Blair Miller, a Colin Powell School Leader in Residence, the program consists of a fall seminar called Aligning Profit and Purpose (ECO 22800). Students who receive a strong grade in the course will receive internship support during the spring, in preparation for the summer.
The fellowship starts in the fall semester each year.
Application Details
Please upload responses to the following questions through the application form. Write your name on all application materials.
Program Details
Fellows will receive a $1,000 stipend per semester for the Fall Semester.
An additional $5,500 Summer Internship Stipend is available for approved Summer internships.
Fellows have the option to intern with organizations in fields like corporate social responsibility, and environmental, social, and governance.
Contact Us
We’re here to assist! Whether you’re a student, alumni, or part of the community, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Office of Student Success for more information or support.
Office of Student Success
North Academic Center, Rooms 6/270 to 6/288
160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031
p. 212.650.8663
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am -5.00pm
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Yes! The Aligning Impact Fellowship is open to all full-time undergraduate students at CCNY, regardless of major, GPA, or citizenship status. However, you must be able to take the seminar and cannot have already completed it.
Fellows will get a $1,000 stipend for completing the seminar, plus summer internship assistance if you do well in the class. You’ll also be part of a cohort of like-minded students from across CCNY, who you’ll get to know well over the course of the fellowship. It’s great to list fellowships on your resume, since they indicate that you went above and beyond in college.
You have to be able to take the class during its scheduled time.
Applications usually open starting January and the deadline to apply is in February.
Get started on your application early – don’t put this off until the last minute! Use as much space as allotted for your essay responses, since this will enable the readers to learn more about you and your interests. Ask a friend or family member to provide feedback on your essays and help you improve them. Talk to previous or current fellows about their experiences so that you have a better understanding of the program as you’re applying.
No. Please only apply to one fellowship per cycle.
If you’re a Colin Powell School major, check out our Paid Internships Program. While not a fellowship, you can get valuable internship experience in the field of your choice.
