OCPA’s J. Rufus Fears Fellowship develops young leaders in public life;
equips them to stand up for free enterprise, limited government, personal
responsibility and individual initiative; and perpetuates the memory of
Oklahoma’s greatest scholar
Overwhelming evidence demonstrates that freedom produces the highest quality of life and overall standard of living. As the next generation of leaders, Fears Fellows are able to apply the ideals of liberty to 21st-century problems. Fellows meet prominent political and business leaders, read original sources and founding documents, watch Dr. Fears' classic lectures, and engage in dynamic discussions of the study material. They learn how to translate ideals into action.
Young leaders 18-35, both professionals and students, are encouraged to apply. A limited number of fellowships are available. We anticipate a competitive selection process.
Fears Fellowship cohorts are planned for OKC and Tulsa in 2026. See the fellowship dates and deadlines below.
A PROJECT OF THE OKLAHOMA COUNCIL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
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Developing tomorrow’s leaders
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Dr. J. Rufus Fears was a Professor of Classics at the University of Oklahoma and the David and Ann Brown Distinguished Fellow at the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs. Fears was an acclaimed teacher, scholar, and renowned lecturer. He was a historian of liberty who influenced generations of students to connect the lessons of the past to the political questions of our time. The J. Rufus Fears Fellowship honors his memory and continues his legacy.
About Dr. Fears
About the program
Matt Oberdick is a lifelong Oklahoman and a graduate of OCPA’s J. Rufus Fears Fellowship program. He holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Oklahoma. Before entering public policy, Matt spent over a decade in ministry, serving in youth, childrens, and global missions leadership. He later served as Director of External Relations at the Oklahoma State Department of Education, where he worked to strengthen partnerships with parents, schools, and communities across the state. A graduate of the Family Policy Alliance Statesmen Academy, Matt is now the Director of the Center for Culture and the Family at OCPA.
Program Director
Academic Credit Available
Credit is available to select students. To find out more about how to earn college credit through the Fears Fellowship, please contact Matt Oberdick at Matt@OCPAthink.org.