Mayor’s Emerging Leaders Fellowship Program

A hands-on summer program where St. Petersburg high school students learn how local government works and discover how young people can help shape their community.

Mayor's Emerging Leaders Fellowship

The Mayor's Emerging Leaders Fellowship connects high school students with city leaders, departments, and real community challenges. They won't just learn about government, they will engage with it directly, and present their ideas to the City Council.

What Summer Fellows Will Do

• Learn how the city government works
• Meet city leaders and department staff
• Visit City Hall and other city departments
• Explore parks, recreation centers, and community spaces
• Work with other students to identify real community needs
• Develop a proposal to improve a park, recreation center, or youth program in St. Petersburg
• Present their ideas to the City Council and city leadership

Students complete the program by presenting a district-based improvement project related to Parks & Recreation.

Program Details

• Dates: June 16 - July 31, 2026
• Schedule: Tuesdays,Thursdays and Friday, July 31
• Hours: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (lunch provided)
• Eligibility: St. Petersburg High students, aged 16+
• Cohort Size: 10 Fellows selected

Program Timeline

April 1, 2026 - Applications Open
April 30, 2026 - Application Deadline
By May 14, 2026 - Fellows Selected & Notified
June 16, 2026 - Program Kickoff
July 31, 2026 - City Council Presentation & Closing Ceremony

Registration Details

Applications open April 1, 2026. Only 10 spots available.
Apply to Become a Summer Fellow HereSign