Hawthorne Institute Partners with National University for Legal Research Fellowship

The Hawthorne Law and Public Policy Institute is proud to announce an exciting new chapter: a partnership with National University to launch the Legal Research Fellowship program. This initiative is designed to support students in conducting groundbreaking legal research, with a special focus on social justice issues.

In this post, we’ll explore what this fellowship offers, why it matters, and how it’s shaping the future of legal scholarship.

Why This Partnership Matters

Legal research isn’t just about books and court cases — it’s about shaping the future of our communities. By partnering with National University, the Hawthorne Institute is making a strong commitment to the next generation of legal minds.

This fellowship provides:

• Funding for research projects

• Mentorship from top legal scholars

• Opportunities to publish and present research

• Focus on social justice, helping create a more fair and just society

For students passionate about law and public policy, this is more than a resume builder — it’s a chance to make real-world change.

What Is the Legal Research Fellowship?

The Legal Research Fellowship is a competitive program open to graduate and law students at National University. The fellowship provides:

• A scholarship award to support research costs

• Regular meetings with faculty mentors

• Access to Hawthorne Institute resources and archives

• A platform to publish findings and present at national conferences

Fellows will tackle topics like civil rights, criminal justice reform, environmental law, and constitutional challenges — issues that matter to communities across the country.

The Goals Behind the Fellowship

The Hawthorne Institute created this fellowship with clear goals in mind:

1. Empower young scholars to explore important legal topics.

2. Advance research in areas of social justice.

3. Build a diverse pipeline of future legal leaders.

4. Strengthen the connection between academic work and real-world impact.

In short, this program isn’t just about academics — it’s about making the law work for everyone.

Why Social Justice Focus?

In today’s world, legal research can’t stay locked in ivory towers. Communities are facing:

• Systemic inequalities

• Environmental threats

• Immigration challenges

• Criminal justice reform needs

By focusing on social justice, the fellowship ensures that the research done doesn’t just stay on paper but reaches courts, lawmakers, and public discourse.

As Dr. Angela Simmons, Director of the Hawthorne Institute, puts it: “We’re not just training students to write good papers. We’re training them to change the world.”

How the Fellowship Works

The fellowship will follow a year-long cycle, with key steps designed to support students at every stage.

Application Process

• Students submit a proposal detailing their research topic and goals.

• Applications are reviewed by a joint committee from Hawthorne and National University.

• Selected fellows receive a research award and are matched with a mentor.

Research and Mentorship

• Fellows meet monthly with their mentor.

• They have access to legal databases, archives, and experts.

• They receive feedback on their drafts and research approach.
  

Final Presentation and Publication

• Fellows present their work at the annual Hawthorne-National Legal Research Symposium.

• Top papers will be published in the Hawthorne Journal of Law and Public Policy.

Stories That Inspire: Meet the First Fellows

The inaugural group of Legal Research Fellows includes:

• Emily Chen, researching environmental justice in urban communities.

• Miguel Alvarez, exploring immigration law reform.

• Jasmine Patel, focused on voting rights and access.

These students are already making waves. Miguel recently spoke on a national panel about immigration reform, while Emily’s research has been featured in local media.

Their stories show what’s possible when young minds get the resources and mentorship they need.

The Role of Mentorship

Mentorship is at the heart of this fellowship. Each fellow is paired with an experienced legal scholar who:

• Provides feedback

• Helps shape the research direction

• Offers career guidance

This one-on-one support helps students avoid common pitfalls, build confidence, and deliver stronger, more meaningful work.

Long-Term Impact: Building the Future of Law

The Hawthorne Institute’s vision goes beyond one fellowship cycle. Over time, the goal is to:

• Grow the fellowship to include more students.

• Build a network of alumni working in law, government, and advocacy.

• Connect research with policymakers to drive real change.

In five years, the Institute hopes to have dozens of fellows working across the country, using their research to influence public policy and court decisions.

Why National University?

National University was a natural partner for this project. With a diverse student body and a strong focus on public service, the university shares the Hawthorne Institute’s mission.

Dr. Samuel Price, Dean of the Law School at National University, shares: “This partnership opens doors for our students and allows them to engage with some of the most pressing legal challenges of our time.”

How to Get Involved

Are you a student interested in applying? Here’s how:

• Watch for the application announcement each spring.

• Prepare a strong research proposal focused on social justice.

• Reach out to faculty for support and letters of recommendation.

Not a student? You can still help:

• Donate to support fellowships.

• Partner with us as a mentor or research advisor.

• Share the word about the program.

What’s Next for the Fellowship

The fellowship is just the beginning. The Hawthorne Institute is already planning:

• New workshops and training sessions for students.

• A public lecture series featuring top legal experts.

• Expansion of the fellowship to include undergraduates.

By building on this foundation, the Institute and National University hope to create a national model for legal research and social impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply for the Legal Research Fellowship?

Graduate and law students at National University with a strong interest in social justice issues.

What kind of projects are eligible?

Projects focusing on civil rights, environmental law, immigration, voting rights, criminal justice reform, and other social justice topics.

How much funding do fellows receive?

Each fellow receives a research award to cover expenses like data collection, travel, and publication fees.

How are mentors selected?

Mentors are chosen from faculty at the Hawthorne Institute and National University, matched based on expertise and research area.

Will fellows’ work be published?

Yes! Top research papers will be published in the Hawthorne Journal of Law and Public Policy and presented at the annual symposium.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Law

The Hawthorne Institute’s partnership with National University marks an important step forward in legal education and research. Together, we’re investing in the next generation of scholars who will tackle the most urgent issues of our time.

If you’re ready to support, apply, or simply learn more, contact the Hawthorne Institute today — and be part of the change.