Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the application period for the Class of 2023 Empire State Scholars is now open. The prestigious program attracts exceptional and diverse talent from New York State and across the country to fill senior positions in government. Since the program’s inception 11 years ago, graduates of the Empire State Fellows program have held leadership positions, including deputy commissioner, undersecretary, and chief of staff positions in state agencies.
“For 11 years, some of the best and brightest New Yorkers who seek to make a difference in their communities through careers in public service have participated in the Empire State Fellows program,” Governor Hochul said. “Now we look forward to welcoming the next class of diverse and accomplished scholars into what has been a transformative experience in state government for so many. I encourage anyone who dreams of making a difference positive in the lives of New Yorkers to apply and join the ranks of our future leaders.”
The Empire State Fellows program is a full-time leadership training program that prepares the next generation of talented professionals for careers as New York State policy makers. The new class of Empire State Fellows will serve from September 2023 to September 2025 and will receive an annual salary of $85,000, as well as a generous benefits package. At the end of the fellowship, a performance appraisal process will identify Empire State scholars who will have the opportunity to continue serving as leaders of New York State government after completing the program.
Deputy Secretary for Political Operations Padma Seemangal said: “As a proud alumnus of the Empire State Fellows program, I have been privileged to be part of a cohort of innovative and dedicated public servants. I have gained invaluable skills, experiences, and connections through the Fellows program that helped me have been well equipped to serve my state. . My time as an Empire State Scholar has given me the opportunity to apply an intersectional lens to my service and advance equity for all my fellow New Yorkers.”
Engagement in the work of the New York State government is central to the Empire State Fellows program. The Office of the Governor will appoint each Empire State Fellow to work directly with a commissioner, deputy commissioner, or other high-level decision-makers in a New York State agency or authority, or in the executive chamber. Work assignments provide fellows with an unparalleled experience of working with senior officials and participating in the policy-making process.
While taking part in the work of state government, Empire Scholars will participate in educational and professional development programs that will help them serve as effective and ethical government leaders. The educational component of the Empire State Fellows program kicks off with an orientation class in September 2023. Educational classes will continue on a fortnightly basis. Meanwhile, professional development activities, including a mentorship program and regular meetings with Cabinet members and other government leaders, will strengthen Empire Scholars’ collaboration with policymakers.
Applications opened on Sunday, January 1, 2023 and will be accepted through Monday, April 3, 2023. Visit www.ny.gov/new-york-state-fellowship-programs/empire-state-fellows-program for more information about the program and instructions for applying.
