APTF Announces India Birdsong Terry Scholarship to Support Future Transit Leaders

The American Public Transportation Foundation (APTF) announces the launch of the India Birdsong Terry Ambassadorial Scholarship to support professionals transitioning from operational to administrative leadership roles within the public transportation industry.

This scholarship honors India L. Birdsong Terry, general manager and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority, an industry leader known for her commitment to workforce development, accessibility, and equity. With a career spanning 18 years in public transportation, Terry has been a champion for frontline employees and an advocate for career advancement opportunities that bridge the gap between operations and executive leadership.

Recognizing the challenges faced by those shifting from hands-on operations to administrative leadership, the scholarship offers financial support to individuals committed to growing their careers in this field. APTF appeals to interested parties to contribute to this worthy scholarship. The goal is $25,000.

Scholarship Recipient Eligibility

Qualified candidates must:

• Be currently employed at a public transportation agency with at least five years of experience in an operations-related division, such as bus, rail, paratransit, maintenance, transit police, training, control management.
• Be enrolled in an accredited college or university, pursuing a degree in public administration, planning, education, supply chain, business/organizational management, law enforcement, or leadership, etc. with a focus on public transportation.
• Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This marks APTF’s third Ambassadorial Scholarship, following the Gary Thomas and Frank Martin scholarships—each honoring leaders who have shaped the industry with their expertise and vision.

The deadline to apply for the India Birdsong Terry Ambassadorial Scholarship is June 6. Learn more and apply here.