Thanks to support from benefactors Dana and David Dornsife, the Dornsife Global Development Scholars program is able to leverage a partnership between Drexel University and World Vision International in 10 countries in eastern, western and southern Africa where World Vision has ongoing water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) projects.

In addition to WASH projects, the program provides Drexel students and faculty with the opportunity to work closely with World Vision on interventions addressing water-related diseases, malnutrition and their consequences, and programs promoting gender equity, maternal and child health and empowering women and girls.

The Dornsife Global Development Scholars program is open to undergraduate and graduate students from all majors and disciplines at Drexel, who may apply for opportunities for summer field practicums, international co-op opportunities, research field experiences (such as an Applied Practical Experience (APE) for master of public health students), long-term dissertation field-work and more. Faculty are encouraged to serve as mentors and to help develop collaborative research projects, global classrooms and study abroad courses in Africa.

The program celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024, and Drexel University is grateful to the Dornsifes for their continued support.

About Dana and David Dornsife

Philanthropists Dana and David Dornsife are well-known for helping to solve the biggest problems facing today's world through their intelligence, talent, generosity and time. Their steadfast focus is on improving the quality of life for all people.

Dana Dornsife received her bachelor’s degree in business from Drexel in 1983. She is the founder and CEO of the Lazarex Cancer Foundation.

David Dornsife, a University of Southern California trustee and 1965 alumnus, is chairman of the board of the Herrick Corporation, the largest steel fabricator and contractor on the West Coast. Herrick's projects include high rises, specialty projects, hospitals, airports and hotels.

Drexel University's Commitment to Global Opportunities

Drexel is committed to enhancing its global impact through collaborations and partnerships worldwide and by growing opportunities for global experiential learning through study abroad, research, co-op, and other international experiences. Drexel is also committed to providing students with significant opportunities for exercising global citizenship both in its surrounding neighborhood and around the world.