Overview
Applications for the 2024-2026 Empire State Fellows Class are now open.
The Empire State Fellows Program is a full-time leadership training program that prepares the next generation of talented professionals for careers as New York State policymakers. The incoming class of Empire State Fellows will serve from September 2024 to September 2026, At the end of the fellowship, a performance review process will identify Empire State Fellows that will be given the opportunity to continue to serve as leaders in New York State government after completing the program.
Engagement in the work of New York State government lies at the heart of the Empire State Fellows Program. The Governor’s Office will appoint each Empire State Fellow to work directly with a Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, or other high-level policy maker at a New York State agency or authority, or in the Executive Chamber. Work assignments offer Fellows unparalleled experience collaborating with senior officials and participating in the policy-making process.
While taking part in the work of government, Empire Fellows will participate in educational and professional development programs that will help them to serve as effective and ethical government leaders. The educational component of the Empire State Fellows Program kicks-off with an orientation course in September 2024. Educational coursework will continue on a semi-monthly basis. Meanwhile, professional development activities, including a mentoring program and regular meetings with Cabinet members and other government leaders, will enhance Empire Fellows’ collaboration with policymakers.
Overview
Applications for the 2024-2026 Empire State Fellows Class are now open.
The Empire State Fellows Program is a full-time leadership training program that prepares the next generation of talented professionals for careers as New York State policymakers. The incoming class of Empire State Fellows will serve from September 2024 to September 2026, and receive an annual salary of $85,000, plus a generous benefits package. At the end of the fellowship, a performance review process will identify Empire State Fellows that will be given the opportunity to continue to serve as leaders in New York State government after completing the program.
Engagement in the work of New York State government lies at the heart of the Empire State Fellows Program. The Governor’s Office will appoint each Empire State Fellow to work directly with a Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, or other high-level policy maker at a New York State agency or authority, or in the Executive Chamber. Work assignments offer Fellows unparalleled experience collaborating with senior officials and participating in the policy-making process.
While taking part in the work of government, Empire Fellows will participate in educational and professional development programs that will help them to serve as effective and ethical government leaders. The educational component of the Empire State Fellows Program kicks-off with an orientation course in September 2024. Educational coursework will continue on a semi-monthly basis. Meanwhile, professional development activities, including a mentoring program and regular meetings with Cabinet members and other government leaders, will enhance Empire Fellows’ collaboration with policymakers.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2024-2026 Empire State Fellows Class are now open.
The Empire State Fellows Program is designed to attract talented professionals from outside of State government with demonstrated leadership potential who want to refocus their careers on public service. Candidates will be selected on the basis of their academic and professional experience, demonstrated leadership potential, and commitment to public service.
To Apply:
Applicants must use the online application form to apply. A complete application will include:
Professional Resume or CV
Personal statement explaining your interest in the Empire State Fellows Program and why you should be selected (no more than two pages)
Two letters of recommendation which speak directly to your leadership capabilities and professional preparation for the program (a link will be provided to you to share with your recommenders once you submit your online application. The letters of recommendation must be submitted by April 8, 2024 or within one week of submission of your online application).
Resume and personal statement must be uploaded into the online application before submission. All application materials must be received before 11:59 p.m. on April 1, 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Applicants should possess the following qualifications:
Professionalism:
Creativity and strong leadership potential
Excellent analytical and evaluative skills
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Excellent organizational skills, efficiency and flexibility
Ability to establish priorities, plan, coordinate and monitor work
Ability to work independently while also collaborating with a team
Ability to identify issues, recognize best practices, formulate options and make recommendations
Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of full-time professional experience
Demonstrated leadership skills
Managerial experience is a plus
Applicants may come from all professional backgrounds
Education:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree, JD, PhD or equivalent) is desirable, but a candidate with only a Bachelor’s degree may be considered if he/she has substantial professional experience
Applicants may come from all academic disciplines
Additional requirements:
Candidates must be eligible to work for New York State without employer sponsorship
Candidates must be available to work in Albany, New York throughout the two-year program
Current New York State executive and legislative branch employees are ineligible for the Empire State Fellows Program
