A Partnership with Louisiana’s Office of the Governor, the Lamar Foundation,
Louisiana State University, Southern University and the Baton Rouge Area Foundation

The Governor’s Fellows Program in Louisiana Government is an opportunity for college and university student leaders to experience public policy in action, learn the rich history and current affairs of Louisiana government, and earn three hours of academic credit through LSU’s Department of Public Administration.

Each Fellow is assigned to a cabinet-level agency in Baton Rouge. Fellows will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience by collaborating with agency leaders on existing projects, observing firsthand the Governor’s leadership strategies and learning how state policies are developed. 

Fellows will also participate in a weekly speaker series, regular academic courses scheduled by LSU, and trips through Louisiana designed to enhance their overall experience and understanding of state government and current affairs.   

Requirements for Participation:

  • The fellowships are open to students attending a Louisiana institution and Louisiana residents enrolled in out-of-state accredited institutions.
  • Good academic standing
  • Demonstrated leadership and commitment to public service, volunteerism and political involvement
  • Ethical standards, including professional discretion and adherence to confidentialities
  • Strong commitment to personal growth, good government and nonpartisanship
  • Fellows are expected to participate in all Fellow’s activities throughout the duration of the program. This includes LSU classes & course work, activities with Fellows Cohort, between 20-40 hours of work within assigned executive agencies per week, and other opportunities that may arise.
  • Failure to adhere to the above requirements may result in removal from the Fellowship and loss of the stipend.

Classification Requirements:

  • Undergraduate students who have completed their freshman year
  • Graduate students who have completed at least one year of their degree program (e.g., MPA, JD, MSW, etc.);
  • In addition to graduate and undergraduate students, students who have completed at least one academic year at a two-year college and are at least 21 years of age may apply for the Fellows Program

Benefits to participating Fellows:

  • Student housing on LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge. (participants are encouraged to stay on campus)
  • Three hours of course credit offered through Louisiana State University’s Department of Public Administration
  • Up to a $1,500 stipend for additional expenses

Application Checklist

· Complete, unofficial transcript (an official transcript will be required for Finalist Candidates)

· Resume including education and employment history

· Letter of professional recommendation from a professor or supervisor

· Letter of personal recommendation (not from a family member)

· 500-word essay on a House or Senate bill from the 2024 Louisiana Regular Session. In your essay, please address whether the Governor supported or opposed the bill.

Please list the top three State Departments you are most interested in

Click Here to Apply to the 2025 Governor's Fellows Program

 Previous Governor's Fellows

2024