Vira I. Heinz Program for Global Leadership

The Vira I. Heinz Program for Global Leadership (VIH Program) is a powerful leadership development and civic engagement program, providing funding to support a summer study abroad experience and the scaffolding to maximize learning as a result.  

The VIH Program prepares awardees for tomorrow's global challenges by offering a unique opportunity for global experiences, leadership development, and civic engagement. Universities and colleges across Pennsylvania participate in the VIH Program. Students from each of the participating institutions apply, and through a selection process, are admitted into the program. Awardees typically receive up to $8,500 to apply toward the costs of a summer experience that is an approved, credit-bearing, academic, study abroad program of at least 4 weeks over the summer. Additional funding may be available to students in need.  

Participation in VIH Program will be a student’s first academic experience abroad. Applicants should demonstrate interest in VIH thematic areas such as civic participation and leadership and can expect supplementary learning opportunities as part of their time in the program in addition to their summer study abroad. Program specifics may vary year to year, but the generous funding provided by The Heinz Endowments is at the core of empowering students to embark on a meaningful international learning opportunity as part of their leadership journey. The VIH Program is administratively based at The University of Pittsburgh in Oakland. Please see the application and eligibility requirements for important information. 

If you are interested in the VIH Program and would like to receive  information, you may fill out this short form.

Ready to Apply? Visit: Vira Heinz Application & Eligibility

Application Deadline for summer 2027: November 2, 2026 11:59 pm.

The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford is a participating institution in the VIH Program for Global Leadership. Please visit Vira Heinz or email vihprogram@pitt.edu for more information.  If you’d like to connect with someone on campus or schedule a meeting, please email Angie Wolfe at awolfe@pitt.edu.