Chris Byrnes ’26 awarded Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service

After two years working in Skillman Library on the Marquis de Lafayette Collections, Chris Byrnes ’26 became the first Marquis de Lafayette Fellow in Special Collections & College Archives this fall. Imagine our excitement to learn that he was also just awarded the Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service!

The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service was founded by President Obama, Michelle Obama, and Airbnb’s CEO, Brian Chesky through Chesky’s $100 million gift to the Obama Foundation. Through this scholarship, Chris will receive:

• Up to $50,000 in “last dollar” financial aid across his junior and senior year ($25,000 per year) at Lafayette.
• $10,000 (and an additional $4,200 from Airbnb to cover the cost of living) to develop his own summer voyage in 2025 relevant to his interests. This travel-work experience will allow Chris to immerse himself in different communities and cultures to become a more informed public servant.
• $2,000 toward Airbnb for the next 10 years after graduation (totaling $20,000) to continue his travel experiences and learning.
• Monthly programming and a fall summit to exchange ideas with fellow Voyagers as well as access to the wider Obama Foundation network.

We are so proud of Chris and hope you will join the Libraries in celebrating this achievement!