Howard Law and Shook Launch Civil Rights Fellowship to Expand Career Pathways for Students
Howard Law and Shook Launch Civil Rights Fellowship to Expand Career Pathways for Students
WASHINGTON, DC - Howard University School of Law is proud to announce the launch of the Shook Civil Rights Fellowship, a new summer program developed in partnership with Shook that will provide a Howard Law student with an opportunity to explore the intersection of complex litigation, civil rights and public interest law.
Launching in summer 2027, the fellowship reflects Howard Law’s commitment to preparing students to pursue careers that combine professional excellence with meaningful service to their communities. Through the partnership, a Howard Law student will gain substantive experience in a large law firm environment while working alongside Shook attorneys and civil rights and public interest organizations across the country.
The fellowship is designed to expose students to two career paths that are often viewed separately: private practice and public interest law. The program will provide a Howard Law student with meaningful experience in complex litigation while offering firsthand exposure to the work, challenges and rewards of civil rights and public interest practice.
By engaging with both environments, the fellow will gain a broader understanding of the legal profession and be better positioned to make informed decisions about their career.
Throughout the summer, the fellow will participate in an immersive, hands-on experience designed to strengthen practical legal skills and provide meaningful mentorship. The student will work on substantive matters, observe proceedings and client interactions, and participate in professional development opportunities with attorneys across Shook. The experience will also provide insight into the standards of excellence that define both private practice and public service.
"The fellowship grew out of conversations with Howard Law students who wanted meaningful opportunities to explore different career paths before choosing one," said Madeleine McDonough, chair of Shook. "This program reflects what has long made Shook special: a belief that excellence in client service, public service, mentorship and developing future lawyers go hand in hand."
For Howard Law, the partnership represents an investment in expanding the possibilities available to students as they consider the many ways they can use their legal education to make an impact.
"This partnership reflects the kind of investment that can change the trajectory of a student’s career," said Lauren R. Jackson, Assistant Dean of Career & Professional Development at Howard University School of Law. "Our students want to serve their communities and to compete at the highest levels of the profession. The Shook Civil Rights Fellowship tells them they do not have to choose and it surrounds them with mentors invested in their success. We are proud to build it alongside a firm that shares Howard Law’s commitment to opportunity and impact."
The Shook Civil Rights Fellowship was officially introduced on September 2, 2026, at Shook’s annual Howard University School of Law Reception in Washington, D.C. Howard Law will welcome the inaugural fellow in summer 2027.