Washington and Lee University
Just as we have high expectations of our fellows, we also have high expectations of our partner organizations. The following requirements help to ensure the best fellowship experience for organizations, fellows, alumni volunteers, and Washington and Lee staff who support the Elrod Fellowship program.
Provide challenging, meaningful work and good supervision
Giving a fellow significant responsibility and meaningful work is paramount to a positive fellowship experience for both the organization and the fellow. Our fellows are intelligent, talented and energetic individuals committed to making a difference in their communities and eager for professional development. Good supervision will maximize their contribution to your organization as well as help them to get the most out of their fellowship year.
The Elrod Fellowship staff and alumni volunteers are committed to referring you applicants capable of making a significant contribution to your organization and to helping resolve any challenges you encounter.
Accommodate scheduling flexibilityPartner organizations occasionally may be asked to excuse fellows for educational seminars and professional development opportunities which are an important component of the fellowship program. Some fellows also will be applying to graduate school, and we ask that you work with them when time off for interviews is required.
Pay a modest salary and provide health insurance
Partner organizations are required to pay fellows a modest salary or stipend that will enable them to live comfortably in your city. In addition, Elrod Fellows should not incur any cost towards their health insurance plan aside from deductibles, co-pays for medical appointments and prescription drugs. Partner organizations that require an employee contribution toward health insurance may require the same of their fellow as long as the organization increases the fellow's salary or stipend to offset this cost. For example, if a fellow is responsible for paying $80 per month toward his or her health insurance, the partner organization must pay the fellow the required monthly stipend plus $80.
Partner organizations have access to a highly-qualified pool of applicants that make a commitment to the public service sector but also have many other employment opportunities. They recognize the value of selecting work in the public sector over higher-paying, private-sector jobs; however, they have to make the same financial considerations regarding employment that all new professionals face.