In partnership with the Celia M. Howard Fellowship Fund, the Simon Institute provides funding for a fellowship to benefit a student interested in a career in government, public policy and public service. Ideally, the fellowship will be based in Carbondale with the Simon Institute, but options are available for external placement for those with specific interest and ability to serve in Springfield with a Constitutional office, state agency or state legislator.
Celia M. Howard (1876-1950) received a scholarship to Harvard Law School, but was denied the opportunity to attend the all-male university because she was a woman. She graduated from Chicago’s John Marshall Law School, had a well-respected career as an attorney, and is believed to be the first woman to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. She was the national leader of the Illinois Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Club, which established the Celia M. Howard Fellowship Fund in her honor in 1949.
Eligibility: Applicants can be from any major. There is a preference for women, as well as for second-year students in the master of public administration (MPA) program. Applicants should be able to demonstrate a clear desire to work in government and public policy. Must provide two letters of recommendation with completed student application.
Details: The student will be hired as a half-time graduate research assistant 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. Student must have 20 hours per week to dedicate to the assistantship.
To apply for the above position, please fill out the form below.
Student Application
To send by email:
1. Save PDF to desktop, fill out your information
2. Save edited PDF and add as an email attachment
3. Send to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
You also may bring by your application to the Institute (Open 8 am - 4 p.m., Closed between noon and 1 p.m) and leave at the front desk.
Celia M. Howard Internship
