Joshua Kemp Named Schwarzman Scholar

12/10/2020

Student and Alumni News

Joshua Kemp ’17 (City College) was named Schwarzman Scholar. This prestigious designation will help him develop leadership skills while pursuing a master’s degree in global affairs at one of the top universities in China.

Scholars were selected through a rigorous application process designed to identify leadership potential, academic ability, and strength of character. More than 400 candidates selected from over 3600 applicants were invited to interview virtually in Beijing, London, New York or Singapore. Josh is one of 154 to join the Class of 2022. He will enroll in August 2021.

“This past year has only reified both China’s prominence on the global stage and the continued need for policy leaders that understand China as we look towards rebuilding a post-COVID world,” he said. “My time studying abroad and working in China has changed my life–and I couldn’t be more ecstatic to return after I complete my current studies in London.”

Josh hopes to see stronger and stronger CUNY representation at Schwarzman in the future and has these words of advice for students considering applying to the program. “Go for it! Going through the application process is a fantastic exercise in self-reflection and fleshing out your career goals—and the Schwarzman interview just in of itself is a phenomenal chance to speak with world class leaders in business and politics.”

Josh is currently pursuing an MSc in Gender (Sexuality) at the London School of Economics and Political Science. He possesses a broad public policy background, having worked to address policies and barriers faced by gender and sexual minorities. He received his BA in International Relations from Macaulay in 2017, minoring in French and Asian Studies. He is one of four CUNY students and alumni among this year’s Schwarzman cohort.

“I’m so extraordinarily thankful to Macaulay for the support that it has provided coming out of my undergraduate studies,” he said. “And I look forward to working together with future Macaulay alums in navigating today’s challenging times.”

The Schwarzman Scholars program was established to bring together the world’s best young minds to explore and understand the economic, political and cultural factors that have contributed to China’s increasing importance as a global power, and train them to become effective links between China and the rest of the world. Through the philanthropy, foresight, and dedication of Blackstone Co- Founder, Chairman and CEO Stephen A. Schwarzman, as well as the generosity of global donors.