LaNyce Hemphill
Southern Arkansas University is proud to announce the launch of a new Public Policy Fellowship, created in partnership with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, and Public Policy Center. This initiative is designed to provide Master of Public Administration students with hands-on experience in policy research, civic engagement, and public service, helping to shape the next generation of leaders in Arkansas.
The fellowship offers students opportunities to engage directly with policy issues affecting their communities, work alongside experts in the field, and contribute to research that informs public decision-making. Through mentorship, experiential learning, and professional development, participants will gain valuable insight into the policymaking process at both the state and local levels.
“This fellowship represents an incredible opportunity for our students to develop the skills and knowledge needed to impact their communities in meaningful ways,” said Amber Overholser, MPA program director. “By partnering with the Public Policy Center, we are equipping our students with the tools to navigate complex policy challenges and drive positive change throughout the state.”
One of the first fellows of the program, LaNyce Hemphill, a Public Administration graduate student at SAU, shared her enthusiasm about the fellowship. “The public administration program has been a great place for me to further my education in policy making and hone the skills it takes to work in public administration. When I heard about the fellowship, I immediately jumped at the opportunity because I knew it would be a great way to continue my learning process, which has been so enriching through my curriculum.”
Ms. Hemphill, who plans to attend law school after graduating in the summer of 2025, is currently working on research related to emerging policy issues and constructing a grant application for her community service initiative, Ladies Lead Confidence is Key. “I hope to create a shift in the way Arkansans view policy making and foster a more educated citizenry,” Hemphill said. “Through this fellowship, I’m excited to contribute to policy efforts that will have a lasting impact on our state.”
The Public Policy Fellowship aligns with SAU’s commitment to preparing students for careers in public service, law, advocacy, and beyond. With a focus on real-world applications, fellows will engage in policy analysis, conduct research on pressing issues, and collaborate with stakeholders across the state.
Kristin Netterstrom Higgins, Public Policy Center Program Associate, shared, “The policy decisions being made today will affect Arkansans for decades,” said Kristin Higgins with the Public Policy Center. “This partnership expands the opportunity for reaching Arkansans with neutral information on policy areas that matter to them.”
SAU donors generously support the Public Policy Fellowship through an endowment. For more information about the program, visit https://web.saumag.edu/mpa2/.
About SAU:
SAU, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
