Working Title: Democracy Fellow - IE

State Role Title: Institutional Employment / Federal Work Study

Position Type: Institutional Employment

Position Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Office of the President Unit

Department: 100191 - JMU Center for Civic Engagement

Pay Band: N/A

Pay Rate: Hourly

Specify Range or Amount: $14.00 

Is this a JMU only position? N/A

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? N/A

Beginning Review Date: 03/23/2026

About JMU:

Located in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA. With a population of just over 53,000, Harrisonburg is one of the most diverse communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 20,000 undergraduate and 1,900 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.

General Information:

Want to make a real impact on campus while building leadership skills that stand out on your résumé? The James Madison Center for Civic Engagement, a unit within the Office of the President, is looking for the next cohort of Democracy Fellows to help advance JMU’s mission of civic engagement, civic discourse, and informed participation (learn more at www.jmu.edu/civic).

Why apply?

Democracy Fellows are at the center of JMU’s civic leadership efforts. This is more than a well-paying campus job—it’s a leadership experience where you’ll help shape how students engage with big ideas like democracy, dialogue, elections, and public service. Fellows model curiosity, respectful disagreement, and thoughtful conversation about difficult issues while encouraging peers to stay informed and engaged.

Duties and Responsibilities:

What you’ll do?

As a Fellow, you’ll collaborate with a team of motivated students to design and lead impactful programs that support:

Voter education and civic participation

Civil discourse, free speech, and meaningful storytelling

Leadership through difficult conversations

High-profile speaker series

You’ll also play a key role in major campus initiatives like Constitution Day, Better Conversations Together, and Dukes Vote. Fellows often help host high-profile events, interact with campus leaders and guest speakers, and even participate in exclusive networking opportunities, behind-the-scenes experiences, and field trips.



What you’ll get as a Democracy Fellow?

Hands-on leadership and project management experience

Mentorship from Madison Center faculty and staff

Professional development in communication, teamwork, and public engagement

Opportunities to attend private meetings and events with civic leaders and high-profile speakers

A chance to create meaningful programs that represent JMU and serve the campus community

Opportunities to present research and speak at regional and national conferences on civic engagement and democracy.

Qualifications:

Who We’re Looking For?

We’re seeking curious, creative, and motivated students who want to grow as leaders and make a difference. Ideal candidates:

Value civic engagement, public service, and pluralism.

Are excited to help others engage thoughtfully and respectfully in important issues

Enjoy asking questions, being curious, solving problems, and working collaboratively

Are comfortable in a fast-paced, professional environment

Can represent JMU and the Madison Center in a nonpartisan way

No matter your major or career goals, this role is for students who care about building stronger communities, encouraging thoughtful conversation, and leading with purpose.



If you have:

Exceptional oral and written communication skills

Ability to work independently

Ability to complete assigned work on time

Ability to collaboratively work as an effective member of a diverse team

Commitment to nonpartisanship and appreciating differences when representing the Madison Center

Knowledge of the value of civic engagement, voting, and civic discourse

We’d love to have you apply!

Additional Posting Information:

All fellows will participate in our annual orientation retreat August 17-21, 2026, and are expected to work an average of 10-15 hours per week during the academic year.

The required cover letter should describe your interest in the Democracy Fellows program and what skills, knowledge, and experience you bring to the program.

Conditions of Employment:  

Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568-6991.

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are a student with a disability and need assistance please contact the Office of Disability Services at (540) 568-6705 or disability-svcs@jmu.edu. You may also visit the Office of Disability Services, located in the Student Success Center, Suite 1202 and they will be happy to assist you.