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Inaugural Fellowship graduating class with graduation keynote speaker Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy
Summary of program
New Jersey LCV Ed Fund’s Boards and Commissions Fellowship is a leadership development program intended to support diverse, environmental champions in securing positions on public boards and commissions at the state and local level. Our goal is to increase the diversity of boards and commissions, so our government is more reflective of the communities which it serves, and so today’s climate and environmental leaders are shaping the policies of tomorrow.
Throughout this free, six-month program, fellows will gain the skills and knowledge to effectively serve as board and commission members and influence environmental policy throughout the state.
We will be accepting applications for our 2027 cohort through October 16th.
Why Join?
Three members of the 2026 Fellowship cohort
As a fellow, you will:
- Learn about the opportunities to serve on a board and commission and identify your personalized pathway to apply
- Grow your network through connections with peer fellows, mentors, and speakers throughout the program
- Build confidence to effectively serve on a board if appointed by learning the key rules and expectations
- Enhance your knowledge of key environmental issues and policies in New Jersey
- Craft a strong application for your selected Board(s) and/or Commission(s)
- If appointed, represent your community as a Board or Commission member - with the support of your Fellowship colleagues!
Hazel Applewhite
—CEO of Ironbound Community Corporation
Serving as CEO of Ironbound Community Corporation, I see how the Fellowship enhanced my ability to bridge grassroots organizing with institutional change. This fellowship understands that the best board members aren't created from scratch; they're community leaders who just need the tools to take their existing wisdom into new rooms.
Lois Kraus
For the investment of six Saturdays in Hamilton you are rewarded with an overview of the environmental issues impacting New Jersey and its residents. Top quality speakers, engaging exercises and the opportunity to be a part of a dynamic cohort made me look forward to each session.
Program Curriculum
One fellow speaking at our 2026 mock committee hearing
The program curriculum is designed to support Fellows in understanding key environmental issues in New Jersey, what board service entails, and how to apply, and will include leadership development workshops so that Fellows feel prepared and empowered to serve.
Topics Covered
- Public Boards and Commissions 101
- Parliamentary Procedure
- Effective communication and negotiation
- Building your network
- Power mapping
- Key environmental issues and policies in NJ
- Resume and interview skills
- A mock hearing
- And much more!
Important Dates
Key application dates
- Application Launch: September
- Application Close: October 16th
- Applicant Interviews: September - October on a rolling basis
- Decisions Announced: Early -November
- Virtual Kick-off Meeting: Mid-December (TBD based on fellow availability)
2027 Fellowship session dates
- Session 1 (Jan 23rd)
- Session 2 (Feb 20th)
- Session 3 (Mar 20th)
- Session 4 (Apr 17th)
- Session 5 (May 15th)
- Session 6 (Jun 12th)
FAQs
Who should apply?
We are looking for diverse, environmental champions who are interested in dedicating their time to serve their community as a public Board or Commission member. No previous experience is required to participate. We highly encourage applicants who do not have experience serving on a board or commission to apply.
What do public boards and commissions do?
Citizen boards and commissions can be found at all levels of government, from your local town all the way to multi-state. They make recommendations - and occasionally policy decisions - that affect New Jersey’s future. Some boards are advisory in nature and some make binding decisions. The work of these bodies informs policy decisions, the implementation of policies, and oversight of public funds. It’s important that we have people at all levels of policy and decision making who think about the potential impacts to climate change, natural resources, and public health.
What is expected of fellows?
Fellows are required to:
- Attend and participate in six class sessions
- Connect with mentors and peers once per month
- Complete monthly homework and surveys
- Apply to serve on a board or commission!
What are the sessions like?
- The cohort will meet in person once a month from January to June for a full-day session (~9am – 4pm)
- We will bring in external speakers to lead presentations, workshops, and exercises which focus on leadership skills, boards service, and key environmental issues in NJ.
- Breakfast and lunch will be provided during each session.
Does it cost anything to participate in the fellowship?
No, the fellowship is free! Food will be provided during each session, but fellows are expected to travel to the Trenton area for the program sessions.
What does the application process entail?
- The application consists of several short-answer questions to better understand your interests and background. We also ask for two references.
- Upon completion of the application questionnaire, you will be prompted to schedule a brief virtual interview. These interviews are an opportunity for us to get to know you better and for you to ask questions about the fellowship program.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply as early as possible. If you need an extension, please email us at information@njlcv.org
Mentorship
Already an experienced board or commission member and want to get involved? Consider becoming a mentor for one of our fellows! Mentors are expected to meet with fellows once a month during the six-month program. For more information, please reach out to information@njlcv.org.