I write in response to your correspondence of December 6, 1999 regarding the Bradley Fellowship Program.

As you are aware, the Foundation's Board recently re-authorized the Program for a two-year period. In taking this action, Directors determined that the interests of the Foundation would best be served by reconfiguring the current list of faculty nominators, institutions, and fields of study. Accordingly, a number of invitations were extended to universities that have never before participated in the Program as well as departments under-represented, for example history, literature, and international relations. In light of the finite number of fellowship grants available under the terms of this re- authorization, many worthy past and present participants did not receive renewal letters.

The Foundation's decision to reduce fellowship awards at the Committee on Social Thought does not in any way reflect on our estimation of the contributions both you and Dr. Lerner have made to the Program over the years. Rather, it is solely a function of those considerations discussed above. That being said, we thank you for your long-standing responsible and principled participation.

I hope that this clarifies any questions you might have. If not, I would happy to discuss the matter further with you.

Sincerely,

Dianne J. Sehler

Senior Program Officer

DJS/ye