Celia M. Howard Fellowship

The Celia M. Howard Fellowship is a program offered by the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute in partnership with the Celia M. Howard Fellowship Fund. This fellowship is designed to benefit a student interested in a career in government, public policy, and public service.

About Celia M. Howard

Celia M. Howard received a scholarship to Harvard Law School but was denied the opportunity to attend due to her gender. She graduated from Chicago's John Marshall Law School and had a well-respected career as an attorney. She is believed to be the first woman to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and was the national leader of the Illinois Federation of Business and Professional Women's Club.

Eligibility

Applicants for the Celia M. Howard Fellowship can be from any graduate major, with a preference for women. To be eligible, applicants must:

• Demonstrate a clear desire to work in government and public service
• Provide three letters of recommendation with their completed application
• Be U.S. citizens
• Have been domiciled in Illinois for more than two years at the time of application
• Have received a bachelor's degree
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0

Details

The selected student will be hired as a half-time graduate research fellow at the pay rate and associated benefits, including a tuition waiver, as set by the Graduate School. Funding for technology needs, travel, and other expenses is included. The student must have 20 hours per week to dedicate to the fellowship. This fellowship is granted for one year.

Application Deadline

• Application opens on May 1, 2025
• Application closes on October 31, 2025

Support for the Fellowship

The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute internships and scholarships, including the Celia M. Howard Fellowship, are made possible through the generosity of donors. Support for these programs can be provided by making a tax-deductible contribution.

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.