Are you a student or early-career professional ready to build strong leadership skills? The Hennessy Fellows Program 2026, also known as Cohort 8, offers a fully funded chance to grow through mentorship and networks. Run by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, this program helps high-potential people from Black college communities turn their ambitions into real-world success.
What is the Hennessy Fellows Program?
The Hennessy Fellows Program is a leadership fellowship that prepares young people for top careers. It focuses on skills like leadership, career readiness, and networking. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund runs it to support students and schools in Black communities. Fellows join workshops, meet industry leaders, and get personal guidance. This setup helps bridge school learning with job-world challenges.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
This program welcomes undergraduates, graduate students, recent graduates, and early-career workers. It mainly targets people linked to U.S. schools, especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). You need to show drive and leadership potential. Strong grades help, but real experience in leading groups or community work matters most.
Key Qualifications and Requirements
To stand out, show solid school records from an accredited place. Prove your leadership through roles in clubs, projects, or jobs. Good speaking and people skills are key, along with a clear drive for growth. You must commit to the program’s events, like training and mentoring sessions. Interest in career steps forward seals the fit.
Benefits of the Hennessy Fellows Program
Fellows get training in strategic thinking, choices, and executive skills. Each one pairs with a pro mentor for advice on jobs and industry tips. Networking links you to company partners, leaders, and other top talents. Career help includes job leads, workshops, resume fixes, and interview practice. You also join Thurgood Marshall College Fund events like leadership camps and company visits.
Why You Should Apply
This stands out because it comes from a trusted group with global reach. It opens doors to job networks that last. Your resume gains a strong leadership mark, boosting job chances. Long-term support keeps your growth going. For anyone aiming high in their field, it speeds up the path to success.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the Hennessy Fellows Program 2026:
- Go to the official site at whosnext.tmcf.org/jobs/1622?lang=en-us.
- Set up an account or sign in.
- Fill out the online form.
- Upload your CV, school records, and other papers.
- Answer questions about your leadership and goals.
- Send it all before the deadline.
For more details, check whosnext.tmcf.org.
Deadline
Applications close on 27th April 2026. Act fast to join this top leadership chance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hennessy Fellows Program?
The Hennessy Fellows Program is a leadership fellowship run by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. It helps students and early-career professionals from Black college communities build skills through workshops, mentoring, and networking.
Who is eligible to apply?
Undergraduates, graduate students, recent graduates, and early-career workers linked to U.S. schools, especially HBCUs or PBIs, can apply. You need to show leadership potential, good grades, and commitment to the program.
What are the benefits of the program?
Fellows get training in leadership and career skills, a personal mentor, networking with industry leaders, and job help like resume reviews and interview practice. It also connects you to events and lasting networks.
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on April 27, 2026. Visit whosnext.tmcf.org to apply online with your CV, transcripts, and leadership details.