Where education, research and public service meet to shape the leaders of tomorrow.
The Shelby Scholars program, housed within the Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership, is an undergraduate initiative dedicated to educating and training future leaders interested in public policy and service. As a Shelby Scholar, students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum, participate in experiential learning opportunities and have access to exclusive programming sponsored by the Shelby Institute.
Programming for Shelby Scholars goes beyond traditional classroom settings. Students will receive tailored guidance and assistance in regard to internships, have an array of professional development opportunities and interact regularly with influential leaders from across the state and nation.
Benefits of being named a Shelby Scholar
• Studying and completing classes in a cohort of motivated students who are passionate about politics, law and public policy. The cohort will be comprised of students from a variety of majors across campus.
• Participating in year-round enrichment and experiential learning programs to enhance the undergraduate experience at the Capstone.
• Receiving personalized academic and career-oriented support.
• Engaging with professionals from across our state and nation who have immense work experience with and connections to government, non-profit and private-sector employers.
Beginning in the Fall of 2024, a small cohort will be selected to serve as the inaugural class of Shelby Scholars.
Undergraduate students who meet the requirements below are eligible to apply for the inaugural Shelby Scholars cohort beginning in Fall 2024:
1. Students who have earned at least 60 credits prior to matriculation in the fall of entry to the Shelby Scholars program.
2. Students who are working toward a minor in Public Policy, OR intend to minor in Public Policy, OR are pursuing a course of study relevant to the mission of the Institute*.
*Applicants pursuing a course of study relevant to the mission of the Institute will be asked to justify ways in which their course of study relates to the mission.
The Shelby Scholars application will open on June 1.
The Shelby Institute is nonpartisan and was established by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees in February 2023.