Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives John Boehner was the featured guest at Tuesday night’s Chambliss Leadership Forum fundraising event held in honor of former Georgia Sen. Saxby Chambliss and his wife, Julianne. This marks the third event of the Chambliss Leadership Forum, which has raised more than $500,000 to provide scholarships for University of Georgia students to spend a semester in Washington, D.C.
 
“Julianne and I are excited to be able to give back to our alma mater by helping provide such an invaluable experience to UGA students,” Chambliss said. “Thanks to many generous friends and colleagues, we are thrilled to announce that the first class of Chambliss Fellows will head to Washington next semester.”
 
The first Chambliss Fellows, who will be selected through a competitive process, will be announced later this year. The students will be provided academic assistance to live, work and pursue their passion in Washington, D.C.
 
“The Chambliss Leadership Forum will allow outstanding UGA students to participate in life-changing experiential learning opportunities in our nation’s capital,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “I am deeply grateful to Senator Chambliss and Julianne and to the many supporters who have helped to launch this exceptional initiative.”
 
Artist Steve Penley, also a featured guest, donated an original piece auctioned off to benefit the scholarship fund.
 
The Chamblisses and Boehner were joined by current UGA students and supporters of the Chambliss Leadership Forum for a discussion about the challenges facing future leaders.
 
“Meeting the unique challenges facing our nation today means we need to advance a unique class of leaders,” Boehner said. “The Chambliss Leadership Forum seeks to do just that, so I am honored to be a part of it and support my friend, Saxby Chambliss.”