Introducing the Shook Civil Rights Fellowship

Shook is pleased to announce the launch of the Shook Civil Rights Fellowship, a new summer program developed in partnership with Howard University School of Law that reflects the firm's longstanding commitment to public interest service, mentorship and innovative recruiting. 

For years, Shook attorneys have invested in developing the next generation of legal talent while building meaningful relationships with law schools and communities across the country. The Civil Rights Fellowship builds on those efforts by creating a unique opportunity for a Howard Law student to gain meaningful exposure to both complex litigation and civil rights/public interest practice while working alongside Shook attorneys and civil rights/public interest organizations across the country.

At its core, the fellowship is designed to help a future lawyer explore two meaningful career paths that are often viewed separately. The program will provide a Howard Law student with valuable experience in a large law firm setting while also offering exposure to the work, challenges and rewards of civil rights/public interest practice. By the end of the summer, the fellow will have a deeper understanding of both environments and be better positioned to make informed decisions about their career.

Launching in summer 2027, the fellowship will provide an immersive, hands-on experience designed to help a student develop practical legal skills, receive mentorship from attorneys across the firm and gain insight into the standards of excellence that define both private practice and public service. The fellow will work on substantive matters, observe proceedings and client interactions and participate in professional development opportunities throughout the summer.

“The fellowship grew out of conversations with Howard Law students who wanted meaningful opportunities to explore different career paths before choosing one,” said Madeleine McDonough, chair of Shook. “This program reflects what has long made Shook special: a belief that excellence in client service, public service, mentorship and developing future lawyers go hand in hand.”

“This partnership reflects the kind of investment that can change the trajectory of a student’s career,” said Lauren R. Jackson, Assistant Dean of Career & Professional Development at Howard University School of Law. “Our students want to serve their communities and to compete at the highest levels of the profession. The Shook Civil Rights Fellowship tells them they do not have to choose, and it surrounds them with mentors invested in their success. We are proud to build it alongside a firm that shares Howard Law’s commitment to opportunity and impact.”

The fellowship was officially introduced on September 2, 2026, at Shook’s annual Howard University School of Law Reception in Washington, D.C. and will welcome its inaugural fellow in summer 2027.