Congratulations to Justin Kiel ’27GS who was recently selected as a 2026 Truman Scholar. One of three Columbians and 55 students selected nationwide for this prestigious scholarship, Kiel is the third Truman scholar from GS, following Jarrell Daniels ‘22GS in 2021 and James Harvey Elliott ‘23GS in 2022.
"Being selected for the Truman Scholarship is an incredible honor,” said Kiel, who is majoring in political science and minoring in human rights. “The process has already opened new doors, and this scholarship will undoubtedly accelerate my path to law school and a career dedicated to public service.”
Kiel came to GS in 2024 after more than a decade in public service, bringing with him a career shaped by hands-on leadership at the local, regional, and national levels. In his home state of Indiana, he has served as an elected official in both town and county government, and today sits on the LaPorte County Council, where he helps oversee a $110 million annual budget. His roots in public service run through his hometown of LaCrosse where he spent multiple terms as Town Council President, working collaboratively to secure over $14 million in outside funding for infrastructure and public services.
Kiel’s work also extends beyond his local community. He previously served as President of the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission and now leads the National Association of Regional Councils, reflecting a broader commitment to regional collaboration.
Alongside his government service, Kiel has spent the past 12 years as the owner and publisher of The Regional News, LaPorte County’s only weekly newspaper. As a 14-time award-winning journalist, he has built a reputation for impactful reporting on local government. His dedication to community engagement is further reflected in his involvement with organizations such as the local chamber of commerce, Lions Club, and alumni association.
Established by Congress in 1975 as the living memorial to President Harry S. Truman, the Truman Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to a future in public service, and academic excellence. Each Truman Scholar receives funding for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities within the federal government.
The 55 new Truman Scholars were selected from 781 candidates nominated by 305 colleges and universities. They were recommended by seventeen independent selection panels based on the finalists’ academic success and leadership accomplishments, as well as their likelihood of becoming public service leaders. Regional selection panels included distinguished civic leaders, elected officials, university presidents, federal judges, and past Truman Scholarship winners.
