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The Women’s Political Caucus of New Jersey (WPCNJ) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2027 WPCNJ Fellowship, a selective, skills-based leadership program supporting emerging women leaders across New Jersey who are committed to increasing women’s participation in government, public service, and civic leadership.
Following the tremendous success of the 2026 Fellowship, WPCNJ is proud to launch its second cohort. Last year’s fellows participated in six interactive sessions led by experienced leaders and policy experts, gaining firsthand insight into New Jersey government, public policy, advocacy, communications, and leadership, and building professional relationships that will support them throughout their careers.
Supported by the WPCNJ Education and Training Fund (501c3), this non-partisan fellowship offers participants practical training and strategic networking through six dynamic sessions. The program equips emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead, advocate, and create meaningful change in their communities.
“We were incredibly proud of the inaugural fellowship’s success and the outstanding group of women who completed the program,” said Chrissy Buteas, Chair of the WPCNJ Education and Training Fund. “Watching our fellows grow as leaders, expand their networks, and deepen their understanding of public service reinforced the program’s importance. We are excited to welcome a new class in 2027 and look forward to another year of learning, collaboration, and leadership development.”
Special thanks to the visionary leaders behind this effort—Alexis Bailey, Chrissy Buteas, Athina Fassu, Petra Gaskins, Megan Hutton, and Kaylee McGuire.
| Eligibility:
The fellowship is intended for professionals who are early in their public-service careers and seeking foundational training in government, public policy, advocacy, communications, and civic leadership. It is not designed for applicants with more than five years of professional public-sector experience.
Applicants should have between 2–5 years of professional experience in any branch of government, in nonprofit organizations that intersect with government, in advocacy, in government affairs, or in electoral campaigns. We welcome passionate, driven applicants committed to the WPCNJ mission to advance reproductive freedom and increase women’s participation in government and public life.
*Please note – because the Fellowship is designed for emerging professionals, priority will be given to applicants with 2–5 years of relevant experience.
Program Structure & Session Topics:
The fellowship comprises six interactive Saturday sessions, each focusing on a core facet of leadership and public service:
- Foundations of Public Leadership
- Governmental Overview: How Policy is Shaped
- Lobbying & Advocacy
- Local Politics
- Demystifying Economic Policy & the State Budget
- Communicating for Impact
Each session features expert speakers, hands-on training, and invaluable mentorship opportunities. Fellows will graduate with enhanced skills, a robust network, and a deeper understanding of New Jersey’s political landscape.
Session Dates:
- January 9, 2027
- January 30, 2027
- February 20, 2027
- March 6, 2027
- April 3, 2027
- May 1, 2027
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| Application Process:
Complete the online application form and send a resume to info@wpcnj.org by Friday, September 11th. Selected applicants will be invited to an interview in October.
Selected Fellows will be notified by email in November.
There is no fee to participate in this program, but in-person attendance is required for every session. |
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