HBCU, News

HBCU Students Get New Path Into Government Leadership Through CBC Institute Fellowship

Jamie Jackson
March 20, 2026

Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer of Ruleville, MS, speaks to Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party sympathizers outside the Capitol in Washington, September 17, 1965, after the House of Representatives rejected a challenger to the 1964 election of five Mississippi representatives. Mrs. Hamer and two other African American women were seated on the floor of the House while the challenge was being considered. She said, "We'll come back year after year until we are allowed our rights as citizens." The challengers claimed that African American were excluded from the election process in Mississippi.(AP Photo/William J. Smith) The CBC Institute’s new government relations fellowship is named in her honor.

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WASHINGTON (AURN News) — A new opportunity aimed at shaping the next generation of Black policy leaders is now open, as the Congressional Black Caucus Institute begins accepting applications for its 2026 Fannie Lou Hamer Government Relations Fellowship.

The fellowship, inspired by civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, is designed to prepare students for careers in government and public policy.

The program focuses on developing changemakers prepared to shape policy and impact communities at a higher level.

Applications are already open and are due April 18, with acceptance notifications scheduled for April 27.

The institute says the fellowship offers hands-on experience in government relations and prepares participants for leadership roles in public service.

Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Jamie Jackson:

Jamie Jackson is an Emmy-nominated television and radio broadcaster who has served American Urban Radio Networks since 2015. He previously covered the Obama and Trump administrations as a White House Correspondent and Pool Reporter for AURN News. Jamie hosted a national PBS television special in 2023 and over the years has worked as a TV news anchor and local NPR host for stations across the country. His work has been honored by numerous organizations, including the NAACP and the Virginia Farm Bureau.