Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) believes in investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change makers.  We are proud to announce the 2026 Otis Holloway International Affairs Scholarship designed to support outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. 

Mr. Otis Holloway was an esteemed diplomat who firmly believed that the future of diplomacy required diversity and representation on the global stage. He attended Trinity College, Columbia University, and earned his master's in Conflict Resolution and International Affairs from American University. Mr. Holloway was the co-founder of Building Relationships and Improving Diverse Graduate Experiences (BRIDGE) to support graduate students. He would later attain an award as a Boren Fellow, study in Portugal, and become a career expert in the State Department's Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, focusing on conflict resolution in Mozambique, Nigeria, and other African countries. Before his untimely death, Mr. Holloway was a well-respected BPIA member, mentoring young professionals and promoting democratic values. His legacy of mentorship and amplifying America's strength through diplomacy will continue as BPIA seeks to honor a high achieving student with a scholarship.

Scholarship Overview

The Otis W. Holloway Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to students pursuing careers in international affairs and related disciplines. For 2026, the total amount for a single award is $2,500.00.  Application and full package are due on Tuesday, November 24, 2026. 

Applicants are evaluated through a holistic review process that considers:

• Academic achievement

• Leadership experience

• Community engagement

• Commitment to international affairs

• Personal essay

• Overall strength of the application

Award amounts and the number of scholarships presented each year are determined based on available funding.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicant must:

• Be a United States citizen.

• Be a high school senior or currently enrolled as a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior at an accredited college or university.

• Demonstrate a strong interest in international affairs, diplomacy, public policy, peacebuilding, conflict resolution, international development, national security, or related fields.

• Demonstrate academic achievement.

• Demonstrate leadership through school, campus, professional, extracurricular, or community activities.

• Submit a complete application by the published deadline.

Applications for the 2026 scholarship are now open. 

Application Packet can be found here: 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gV9ZXdUmMwqqpn43kVnpfmjmeIddVpPoZnnel4zvdAw/edit?usp=sharing

Application Form: https://forms.gle/Je9puA467cscq2Ky5