New York State Announces Applications Open for 2015-2017 Empire State Fellows Program

The State of New York today announced the opening of the application process for the latest class of the Empire States Fellows. Now in its fourth year, the prestigious program attracts exceptional and diverse talent from all around the country to serve in high-level positions in New York State government. Since its inception in 2012, the two-year program has begun preparing a new generation of policy-makers to help lead New York State well into the future, with various Empire State Fellows going on to serve in appointed positions throughout the administration upon completion of their Fellowship.

“New York has always fostered great home-grown talent while also attracting the best and brightest from around the world,” said New York Secretary of State Cesar A. Perales, who oversees the program for Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “The Empire State Fellows program has proven to be an effective platform in shaping a new and talented group of policy-makers to contribute to public service. We look forward to welcoming another dedicated and diverse class to the Capital.”

To apply to be an Empire State Fellow, candidates must E-mail a cover letter, resume, personal statement, and two letters of recommendation by Friday, April 10, 2015. For more information on the Empire State Fellows Program visit their website.

The Empire State Fellows program is a unique training ground to prepare and retain professionals for policy-making roles in New York State government. Once selected, they will work closely with senior administration officials and participate in the policy decisions that will help transform our State. While working full-time in State government, Empire State Fellows will also engage in specially tailored educational and professional development programs created collaboratively by the Cuomo Administration and the Rockefeller Institute at SUNY Albany. These programs include interaction with the top leaders in State government, as well as on-the-ground experience learning from local government officials.

Successful Empire State Fellows have continued serving New York State after completing the two-year Fellowship. Governor Cuomo has appointed more than 10 Empire State Fellows to senior positions in his administration.

“The path that took me from being an Empire State Fellow, to Assistant Commissioner with New York State Homes & Community Renewal, and now as the Governor’s Assistant Secretary for Housing, was thrilling, compelling and life-altering,” said Kisha Santiago, a former Fellow. “The program is an incubator for excellence that propels those with the passion and drive to make a real difference for New Yorkers on a career trajectory that forges the finest in public service. If you are a creative problem-solver who works hard and is ready for meaningful work, I strongly encourage you apply to the Empire Fellows program.”

“The Empire State Fellows program is unique,” said Assistant Secretary to the Governor for the Environment and former Fellow Peter Walke. “There are many leadership training programs, but no other program enables motivated individuals to serve at this level. I am grateful to the Governor for giving me the opportunity to prove my merit.”

The Empire State Fellows program is part of Governor Cuomo’ s New New York Leaders initiative that recruits experienced professionals, college graduates and student interns to serve in State government.