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About the Fellowship

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The fellowship provides funding for students to dedicate 200+ summer hours to meaningful public service work or ethics-based research.

  • Stipends: $2,000 for undergraduates | $2,400 for graduate students
  • Eligibility: Full-time SMU students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher returning to campus for Fall 2026.
  • Timing: Fellowships run from June through August.

 

Best Practices for Securing a Sponsoring Organization

Step 1: Choose a Focus Area

Start by reflecting on the kind of public service or ethics research that excites you. Ask yourself:

  • What causes, issues, or challenges matter most to me?
  • Is there a particular community or organization I want to serve?
  • How can I apply my academic knowledge or skills to create meaningful impact?
  • Do I want to engage in public service or ethics research?

Some areas to consider:

  • Social Services: Nonprofits tackling hunger, housing, or community health
  • Education: Organizations supporting youth, literacy, or mentorship programs
  • Research: Projects related to ethics, policy, or social justice
  • Global Service: Opportunities with international agencies

You can find a list of previous sponsoring organizations here.

 

Step 2: Connect Your Focus Area with Potential Sponsoring Organization

You are responsible for identifying an agency or organization to support your project. Here’s how to begin:

  1. Research Organizations:
    • Look for local, national, or international nonprofits, research centers, or advocacy groups that align with your focus area.
    • Review agency websites, volunteer opportunities, or current initiatives that align with your interests.
  2. Prepare for Conversations:
    • Be ready to explain the fellowship requirements: 200 hours of service, supervision, and a brief end-of-summer report.
    • Share your project ideas and how you plan to contribute to the organization’s mission.
    • Emphasize that the stipend is provided through SMU, so there is no financial burden on the agency.

If you need help finding nonprofit organizations to reach out to, click here. Need help finding a sponsoring organization or professional communication? We encourage you to reach out to the Hegi Family Career Development Center.

 

Step 3: Secure the Sponsorship Letter

  1. Make Contact:
    • Identify a key staff member at the organization (e.g., volunteer coordinator, program manager, or executive director).
    • Send a professional email introducing yourself and the fellowship opportunity.
    • Ask if the organization would be willing to supervise a summer service project and provide a sponsoring letter to confirm their commitment
  2. Once you’ve identified a placement site, ask the primary contact that you will be working with at the sponsoring organization you choose to provide a Sponsoring Organization Letter that:
    • Confirms the agency’s agreement to host and supervise your fellowship.
    • Outlines your tasks, responsibilities, and project goals.
    • States the supervisor’s commitment to overseeing your 200 hours of work over the summer.

Download example of a sponsoring organization letter from a previous Public Service Fellowship application here.

 Download sponsoring organization letter template here.

Tips for a Strong Application
  • Start early! Securing a sponsoring organization can take time.
  • Be clear and specific in your proposal about what you will do, why it matters, and how it connects to ethics and public service.
  • Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and readiness.
  • Proofread all materials for clarity and professionalism.