Florida State University graduate student James Eggers has been selected as one of 22 McCain Global Leaders for the 2025 cohort. Eggers is enrolled in the Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies program at the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.
The McCain Global Leaders program is a year-long fellowship named after Senator John McCain. It supports emerging leaders committed to democracy, human rights, and freedom by providing them with skills and knowledge to address global challenges.
Keith McCall, assistant director for the Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards, commented on Eggers’ achievement: “Being selected as a McCain Global Scholar is a significant achievement and a testament to James’s sustained engagement as a servant leader. As a former Fulbright recipient, an active-duty Coast Guard officer and now a McCain Scholar, James exemplifies the integration of academic excellence and globally focused public service.”
Eggers has experience serving in the Coast Guard and previously participated in Teach for America. In 2015, he held a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship. His career reflects ongoing commitment to service and mentorship.
In response to his selection, Eggers stated: “I am deeply honored to be selected as a McCain Global Leader and grateful for the opportunity to join a cohort of rising leaders that value Senator McCain’s legacy of service and integrity. The program invests in the development of 20-25 principled leaders annually across the globe. Senator McCain’s example of character-driven leadership reminds me of the responsibility we all share to put principle above partisanship and do our part to make the world a better, safer place.”
As part of the program, Eggers will participate alongside peers from different countries in intensive training sessions, networking opportunities, and collaborative projects.
Damon Andrew, dean of Anne’s College at FSU said: “We are incredibly proud to see James Eggers recognized as a McCain Global Leader. James’s commitment to making a global impact aligns perfectly with our mission at Anne’s College to cultivate transformative leaders, and we eagerly anticipate the positive change he will undoubtedly bring to the world.”
Applications for next year’s cohort will open in early 2026. More information about the program can be found at https://mccaininstitute.org/. Details about Anne’s College are available at https://annescollege.fsu.edu/, while information about FSU’s Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards can be accessed at https://ogfa.fsu.edu/.
