A Partnership with Louisiana’s Office of the Governor, the Lamar Companies,
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.
  • Classification Requirements:
    • Undergraduate students who have completed their sophomore 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
  • Good academic standing with an overall G.P.A. of 3.0 or equivalent
  • 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 thought out 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.

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 and Interview Procedures:

The Fellows Application Portal will open February 7 – March 11, 2022.

Applicants should be prepared to submit the following through the portal:

  • 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 focusing on a specific policy issue or cabinet position within the Governor’s Office. Your statement should outline the significance of your choice and how, based upon your education and experience, you could enhance or further the goals of that specific office or policy issue. Your essay may either focus on a current issue or suggest a new policy. To the best extent possible, Fellows will be placed within their area of focus.

 

Fellows Program Timeline:

  • February 7, 2022          Application Opens
  • March 11, 2022              Application Deadline
  • Week of March 14         Finalists Notified
  • Week of March 21         Finalist Zoom Interviews
  • Week of March 28         2022 Fellows Cohort Announced
  • May 27, 2022               LSU Move In & Welcome Weekend
  • May 31, 2022               Fellows Welcome & Orientation
  • June 1, 2022                First Day in Executive Departments
  • Week of July 4              Program Break
  • Week of August 8          Policy Presentations & Graduation

 

2022 Governor's Fellows Cohort

 

For questions or further information, please email GovernorsFellows@la.gov.