Joel Mittleman '09 Named Truman Scholar

by Stacey Kutish
03/31/2008

Joel Mittleman '09 has been awarded a 2008 Truman Scholarship, which recognizes strong leadership potential, intellectual ability, and a commitment to careers in government or the not-for-profit sector. One of only 65 students from around the country to win the award, Mittleman will receive $30,000 for graduate studies. "The Truman is an excellent stepping stone into a career in public service. I look forward to using the opportunities and connections that the Truman affords me to gain the skills I need to advocate for our public schools and the students they serve," said Mittleman.

Mittleman is an economics major with minors in educational studies and public policy. At Swarthmore, he is a leader in programs which provide academic support to his fellow students. "Though I've always wanted to become a teacher, it wasn't until I came to Swarthmore that I linked my interest in education and my commitment to social justice. My course work has convinced me of the centrality of public education in the work of building a racially and economically just society," said Mittleman.