Luke Magyar, a University of Chicago student and former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, has been awarded the prestigious Truman Scholarship for 2025. This honor is presented by the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation, recognizing individuals committed to public service. Magyar, currently a third-year political science major with a master's in international relations in progress, served in the Marine Corps for five years before transitioning to academia.
Magyar expressed his enthusiasm for receiving the award, stating, “It’s definitely an honor and life-changing opportunity. Being awarded the scholarship just reaffirms my decision and desire to go into and continue my public service work.” The Truman Scholarship has been prestigious since its congressional establishment in 1975, providing support and resources like funding for graduate studies and opportunities within the federal government.
Magyar is notably involved with the Corioli Institute, where he serves as the director of advocacy and outreach. This nonprofit focuses on reintegrating formerly armed actors into civilian life. Arthur Salvo, the interim director and assistant dean of national fellowships at UChicago, commented, “Luke has dedicated his energies and gifts to improving the lives of veterans from allied forces who do not receive the support they deserve.”
The pursuit of helping service members extends beyond U.S. troops. Magyar has worked with Afghan Special Forces members who relocated to the United States after Afghanistan's fall in 2021, conducting interviews to support the Afghan Adjustment Act.
Additionally, Magyar has engaged with Ukrainian soldiers during the ongoing conflict with Russia, contributing to policy papers and supporting mental health and substance abuse programs.
Magyar is pausing his studies with plans to pursue a master’s of public policy, aiming for a future impact in the U.S. State Department. He focuses on transition strategies, stating, “What we want to do is to identify this population that we know has a wealth of potential and experience and see what they need to exit an armed forces role and become another productive member of society.”
The University of Chicago’s Office of National Fellowships supported Magyar through the application process for the Truman Scholarship, recognizing his contributions and potential for future public service.