Golisano Fellowship in Developmental Disability Nursing
Developing the next generation of leaders in developmental disability nursing.
The Golisano Fellowship in Developmental Disability Nursing is a premier leadership development program designed to prepare nurses to become educators, advocates, innovators, researchers, and systems leaders in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Through individualized mentorship, collaborative learning, project-based scholarship, and a national community of practice, Fellows develop the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills needed to drive meaningful change and advance health equity for people with IDD.
The goal of the fellowship is to create thought leadership in the domains of nursing education, practice, system leadership, and advocacy. Ultimately our fellows are prepared to advance inclusive practices, foster innovation, promote health and self-determination to encourage wellness, and improve health equity for people with IDD.
Applications Now Open
Golisano Fellows are nurse leaders committed to ending health inequities facing people with IDD through education, practice, and advocacy. Does this sound like you? Apply today!
Golisano Fellowship Virtual Information Session
Are you passionate about advancing equity and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)?
Join us for an informal virtual information session to explore the Golisano Fellowship in Developmental Disabilities, a 12-month program connecting emerging nurse leaders from around the world.
During this session, you’ll:
- -Gain an inside look at the fellowship experience and its focus on inclusive, disability-informed care
- -Hear how fellows are engaging in impactful, interprofessional work across diverse settings
- -Reflect on how your interests, strengths, and goals may align with the program
Whether you’re just beginning to explore or already considering applying, this is a space to ask questions, connect, and imagine what’s possible.
What You Will Gain as a Golisano Fellow
The Golisano Fellowship offers far more than professional development; it provides a transformative leadership experience. Fellows deepen their expertise in IDD nursing, work alongside nationally recognized mentors, develop leadership and scholarship skills, complete a meaningful Fellowship Project, and build lasting connections through a national network of peers and alumni. Whether your goal is to advance clinical practice, education, research, advocacy, or systems leadership, the Fellowship equips you with the knowledge, support, and community needed to create meaningful change for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Program Structure
The Golisano Fellowship offers dynamic programming delivered in an online environment. Fellows are partnered with an internationally recognized, interprofessional mentor who will provide individualized support. Each Fellow will design and complete a Fellowship Project during the Fellowship.
Fellowship Commitment
The Golisano Fellowship is designed for nurses who are ready to grow as leaders, scholars, advocates, and change agents in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Fellows engage in a year-long learning journey that includes mentorship, leadership development, collaborative learning, networking, and the completion of a Fellowship Project. To support a successful Fellowship experience, applicants are encouraged to discuss participation with their institution or employer and obtain support for their professional development goals.
Program Timeline
Applications will be accepted September 15-November 1, 2026. Participants will be notified by January 1, 2027. The 2026 Golisano Fellowship cohort begins June 2027 and ends June 2028.
Tuition and Fees
The cost of the year-long Fellowship is $3,000, not including costs of Fellowship materials. Tuition is non-refundable after the first immersive Fellowship week.
Full and partial scholarships are available to qualifying candidates and awarded based on the review of the candidate’s application.
To be considered for a scholarship, select the relevant option on the application.
Additional Costs
Additional costs may be incurred for the purchase of books or other media. Candidates can anticipate expenses in the range of $150-200.
Learn More about the Golisano Fellowship
Applicant Criteria
Golisano Fellows are determined, dedicated, and driven. Find out if you have the expertise, knowledge, and potential to be a successful Golisano Fellow.