Men's Basketball 7/2/2014 10:48:00 AM

Broncos Accepted Into California Fellowship

Dahir Nasser (left) and Bryce Brady will start their 10-month Fellowship Program experience in October.

California Executive Fellowship Program

POMONA, Calif. – The California Executive Fellowship Program features an elite group of 18 graduate-level students from across the country.

Fortunately for the state of California, the 2014-15 Fellowship Program roster includes two former members of the Cal Poly Pomona men's basketball team: Dahir Nasser and Bryce Brady.

The Bronco duo will start the 10-month program in October. The Executive Fellowship Program is sponsored by Sacramento State and the Office of the Governor to provide an experiential learning opportunity in state government. California's executive branch is one of the most dynamic in the United States.

Nasser and Brady certainly qualify, as they developed a dynamic set of skills while progressing toward their CPP degrees.

"It's exciting to see two former student-athletes earning this exclusive and incredible opportunity," men's basketball head coach Greg Kamansky said. "They continue to represent our program in the best possible way. We're extremely proud of them and it's an honor to have coached Dahir and Bryce."

Nasser, a member of the Broncos' 2010 national title team, graduated that same year from CPP as a Psychology major and then earned a Master's in Public Health at San Diego State. Brady played three years for the Broncos and helped the 2012-13 squad go 28-3 as the team went on to sweep the conference's regular season and tournament titles. He graduated last month with a degree in Political Science.

"This Fellowship Program fits perfectly with my interests and career aspirations," Brady said. "I had a great experience in Washington working in the legislative part of the federal government. Now I get to broaden my horizons in the executive branch of the California government."

Washington has also become somewhat of a second home for Nasser. He's excelled in another fellowship, working in healthcare administration for the Department of Veteran Affairs. The opportunity with California involved a lengthy application process, including a flight to Los Angeles for an interview.

With more than 1,000 applicants vying for the 64 spots across the four branches of the program, the odds might have been stacked against two Broncos making the final cut. But similar to their passion on the basketball court, Nasser and Brady bring that same dedication to their career pursuits and continue to achieve success.

"Knowing that Bryce will be in the program is just icing on the cake," Nasser said. "When I was doing the interview, they told me that another candidate was also a Cal Poly Pomona men's basketball student-athlete. It will be nice to have a familiar and friendly face there in Sacramento."