FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, March 7, 2006

Peace Corps Fellows/USA Program Expands Partnership with University of Denver

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 7, 2006 More returned Peace Corps volunteers will soon be assisting local communities in Colorado as part of their graduate studies, as the Peace Corps\' Fellows/USA program has announced a new partnership with the University of Denver. The new partnership, with the International and Intercultural Communication program, further strengthens a collaboration which began in 2002 at DU\'s Graduate School of International Studies.

"The Fellows/USA program is an excellent fit with International and Intercultural Communication students," said Margie Thompson, IIC director. "The experience and skills the students receive in the Peace Corps will blend seamlessly into the curriculum."

Upon completion of their service, returning Peace Corps volunteers will enroll as Fellows in the IIC program at a reduced tuition rate. DU will place them in internships in underserved Colorado communities. Fellows are well suited to filling hard-to-staff positions or to working in multicultural environments as a result of the language and professional skills they acquired while living and working in developing countries during their Peace Corps service.

The work of Fellows varies greatly throughout the country. While working toward a joint master\'s degree offered by the School of Communication and the Graduate School of International Studies, DU Fellows will complete internships in local public or nonprofit organizations, including health care and arts organizations, local government, school systems, and community development.

One of the Peace Corps\' domestic programs, Fellows/USA has established relationships with more than 40 universities nationwide. For more information, please visit the Peace Corps Fellows/USA section.

The Peace Corps is celebrating a 45-year legacy of service at home and abroad, and a 30-year high for volunteers in the field. Since 1961, more than 182,000 volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 138 countries where volunteers have served. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.

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