Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission facts for kids
The Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission is a special group in the UK government. Its main job is to give out scholarships and fellowships to students from America. These awards help American students study and do research at universities in the United Kingdom after they finish their first degree.
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How it Started
This commission was created by a law in the UK in 1953. It was set up to say "thank you" for the Marshall Plan. The Marshall Plan was a big help from the United States that gave money and support to countries in Western Europe, including the UK, after World War II. This help was very important for rebuilding these countries.
A key person who helped create this scholarship program was Sir Roger Makins. He worked for the British government. Soon after the program started, he became the British Ambassador to the United States.
The commission has up to ten members chosen by the British government. The very first chairman was Sir Oliver Franks. He had been the British Ambassador to the US when the Marshall Plan was happening. The work of the commission is managed by a group called the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
In the first year, 12 Marshall Scholarships were given out. Over the years, more and more students received them. For example, in 2017, 40 new awards were made. Since 1954, about 1,800 Marshall Scholarships have helped American students study in the UK.
Marshall Scholarships: What They Are
Marshall Scholarships are for American students who want to study for a higher degree (like a master's or PhD) at a UK university. Students are first suggested by their universities in the US. Then, they have interviews with special committees in different parts of the US, often at British consulates.
These scholarships can cover one or two years of study, and sometimes even three years. They pay for university fees, money for living expenses, and travel costs to and from the US. There's also extra money for books and for travel related to their research.
Marshall Sherfield Fellowships: For Advanced Research
The Marshall Sherfield Fellowships started in 1997. These awards help up to two American postdoctoral researchers. Postdoctoral researchers are people who have already earned their PhD and want to do more advanced research at a UK university or research center. These fellowships are named after Lord Sherfield, who was Sir Roger Makins, the person who helped create the commission.
Marshall Medals: Special Awards
Every ten years, the commission gives out Marshall Medals. These medals are given to people who have achieved amazing things. Their work helps improve understanding between Britain and America, or they have played an important role in public life. Their achievements should reflect the spirit and legacy of George Marshall, who was the person behind the Marshall Plan.
