Today, Gov. John Bel Edwards announced the 13 college students who have been chosen to participate in The Lamar Governor’s Fellowship Program in Louisiana Government. This is an opportunity for the students to gain firsthand knowledge about the development and implementation of public policy as well as the state’s rich history and current affairs of Louisiana government. The program is a partnership with Louisiana’s Office of the Governor, Louisiana State University, Southern University and the Baton Rouge Area Foundation.
“I’m inspired by the excitement these students have shown for Louisiana and for learning how they can be of service in moving our state to the next level,” said Gov. Edwards. “This program will provide an invaluable learning experience and opportunity for students who are interested in becoming future leaders of our state. Our goal is to ensure their success in the program and help them understand how important they are to the future growth and development of our state.”
The students are either from Louisiana or are attending a Louisiana university or college. Each one has been assigned to work in a cabinet-level agency in Baton Rouge based on their interest of study. In addition to working within the state agencies, they will also participate in a weekly speaker series and field trips designed to enhance their overall experience and understanding of Louisiana government.
Click here to meet this year’s fellows.
The Class of 2019:
Grace Bordelon – Office of the Governor, Communications
Alacia Brew – Office of the Governor, Community Programs
Hayden Cresson – Office of Juvenile Justice
Richard Davis – Department of Corrections
Donald Dunbar – Department of Revenue
Jacob Ellis – Alcohol and Tobacco Control
Robert Kyte – Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority
Elise LaFleur – Office of the Governor, Policy
Yancy LeGrande – Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
David Lehman – Louisiana Economic Development
Justin Malone – Louisiana Workforce Commission
Sarah Procopio – Department of Health and Hospitals
Christopher Ward – Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness
The students will receive student housing on LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge, three hours of course credit offered through the LSU Public Administration Institute and up to a $1,500 stipend for additional expenses.
This year’s Fellows program is sponsored by private donations, including Sean and Jennifer Eplett Reilly, who are the title sponsors.