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The Senate Hispanic Research Council is dedicated to strengthening the next generation of young leaders through our Senator Gregory Luna Scholars and Fellows program. Participants in the program will gain invaluable experience and exposure to the Texas Senate as full-time legislative staffers during a Texas legislative session.
The 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 meet with local and state leaders across a wide variety of policy areas through our weekly Speaker Series. These group sessions are not only designed to allow participants to learn about the policies that shape our state but to support them in building their professional network. Scholars and Fellows will receive a monthly stipend to compensate them for their work and to assist with living expenses.
This transformative fellowship program is named after the late Texas Senator Gregory Luna. Senator Luna represented Bexar County in the Texas Legislature from 1985-1999. The Senator was a one time chair of the Senate Hispanic Caucus. During his tenure, he served as a champion of the people and strove to break down barriers and build pathways of opportunity for Texas’ less fortunate citizens.
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:
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Be at least 21 years old by January 1, 2027.* Contact SHRC directly to inquire about special exceptions.
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Have demonstrated high academic achievement.
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Show interest in government and public policy through work experience, academic studies, community service activities or participation in public service-oriented activities.
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Desire to learn about the legislative process.
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Exhibit exceptional writing, comprehension, and analytical skills.
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Demonstrate leadership qualities and potential for growth.
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Illustrate cooperative abilities in a past project or accomplishment.
Deadlines for applying to the Senator Gregory Luna Scholars and Fellows programs are as follows. Late applications will not be considered without approval.
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Early Application Deadline – October 23, 2026, at 5pm Central
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Notification of Semifinalists – November 16, 2026, for Early Applicants
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Regular Application Deadline – November 16, 2026, at 5pm Central
Completed applications may be submitted via mail, email, or online.
Mailed applications should be sent to:
Senate Hispanic Research Council
1108 Lavaca St, Ste 110-236
Austin, TX 78701
If sending by mail, please email Sarah Saenz at sarah@tshrc.org to confirm receipt of application.