Luna Scholars & Fellows Program

The Luna Scholars and Fellows of today are the leaders of tomorrow.

The Senate Hispanic Research Council is dedicated to strengthening the next generation of young leaders with our enriching Scholars and Fellows program. Participants in the Senator Gregory Luna Legislative Scholars and Fellows Program will gain invaluable experience and exposure to the Texas Senate as full-time legislative aides during the 87th Legislative Session.

This program is designed for each participant to gain hands-on knowledge and experience about the legislative process. During the program, each participant is assigned to the office of a State Senator or the Lieutenant Governor to perform a variety of legislative tasks. In addition to the exceptional work experience, program participants will meet with local and state leaders across a wide variety of policy areas for a weekly Speaker Series to discuss leadership development and public policies that shape the state. These group sessions are designed for the participants to not only learn but to build their professional network. Scholars and Fellows will receive a monthly stipend to compensate for work performed and to assist with living expenses.

This unique and enriching fellowship program is named after the late Texas Senator Gregory Luna, who represented Bexar County in the Texas Legislature from 1985-1998, was a one time chair of the Senate Hispanic Caucus and served as a champion of the people who strove to dissolve barriers for Texas’ less fortunate citizens.

Eligibility Requirements

Scholars must be an undergraduate student enrolled in an accredited educational institution with at least 60 semester hours completed.

Fellows must be a graduate student currently enrolled in an accredited educational institution. Recent graduates are eligible to apply.

All applicants must:

Be at least 21 years old by January 4, 2023. Contact SHRC directly to inquire about special exceptions.
Possess high academic achievement.
Demonstrate an interest in government and public policy through active participation in community service activities.
Possess exceptional writing, comprehension and analytical skills.
Display leadership qualities and potential for further growth.
Be prepared to provide legal proof of eligibility for employment.
Demonstrate cooperative abilities in a past project or accomplishment.

Program Deadlines

Early Application Deadline – October 28, 2022, at 5 pm CST
Notification of Semifinalists by November 11 for Early Applicants
Regular Application Deadline – November 11, 2022, at 5 pm CST

Completed applications can be sent via email or mail carrier. If sending by mail, please email Sarah Saenz at sarah@tshrc.org to confirm receipt of application. Late applications will not be considered without approval.