Boards and Commissions Fellowship
Every day in Louisiana, critical decisions about our communities are shaped by local and statewide boards and commissions. These bodies influence nearly every aspect of community life — yet too often, the people most affected by these decisions are missing from the table.
The Serve Louisiana Boards & Commissions Fellowship is a 6-month leadership experience designed to change that. Fellows will spend half a year building the knowledge, confidence, and network needed to step into public service roles with purpose and readiness. Through training, mentorship, and hands-on learning, you’ll understand how boards and commissions work, where your voice is needed, and how to make meaningful, values-aligned contributions in your community.
Who Should Apply
You don’t need any prior political or policy experience—all you need is a strong commitment to serving your community and a desire to make a meaningful impact. If you want to improve local health, protect natural resources, and bring diverse perspectives into public decision-making, this program is for you.
Curriculum Highlights:
Duration: 6-months
Format: Monthly, in-person or virtual session
+ Local Government 101
+ Louisiana Open Meetings & Public Records Law
+ Parliamentary Procedure (Robert’s Rules of Order)
+ Power Mapping & Navigating Board and Commission Appointments
+ Effective Communication for Public Impact
+ Networking & Building Public Relationships
+ Louisiana Conservation Issues & Ongoing Policy Efforts
+ And more!
Call for Mentors
Each fellow will be paired with a mentor to help guide them as they apply for positions on boards and commissions. Mentors meet with their fellow monthly. If you are interested in serving as a mentor, please email maggie@servelouisiana.org.
Applications for the 2026 Fellowship opens January 5. Priority deadline is January 30th.