Harris Fellows & Interns
Hands-on public service experience for the students of District 91 — because the next generation of Memphis leaders starts here.
Program Overview
Created by Representative Torrey C. Harris, the Harris Fellows & Interns Program is a unique opportunity for high school seniors and college students in and around Tennessee House District 91 to gain hands-on experience, professional development, and an inside look at public service.
The program is designed to empower students with a passion for social justice, community engagement, leadership, and policy to make a meaningful impact on their own community. Fellows primarily serve as community organizers — helping plan and manage district activities and working closely with Rep. Harris on special projects.
Ideal candidates are self-motivated, politically engaged fast learners who can adapt in a fast-paced environment. Applicants should have strong writing skills, an excitement to manage social media and create content, and the ability to interact with people in a variety of professional settings. Fellows are expected to attend the Representative's scheduled events and take part in the weekly planning process.
Open Positions
- (2) Community Engagement Fellows
- (1) Media & Communications Fellow
Media & Communications Fellow
- Manage social media accounts and create content — graphics, reels, videos, and event pages
- Write, design, and distribute the district newsletter
- Keep the website and communication materials up to date
- Serve as a trusted advance team member at public events — capturing photos and video and handling arrival preparations
- Help plan, coordinate, and execute district events: community service days, town halls, festivals, and workshops
- Coordinate logistics — inviting speakers, recruiting volunteers, booking vendors and venues, and acquiring supplies
Community Engagement Fellow
- Serve as a liaison between the office of Rep. Harris and local communities within District 91
- Maintain positive relationships with community leaders, stakeholders, and residents
- Accompany Rep. Harris at public events as a trusted advance team member
- Organize district events — community service days, town halls, festivals, and policy workshops
- Build and maintain updated mailing and email databases of contacts
- Lead and develop special projects
- Draft and mail thank-you notes, letters, and mailings
- Conduct legislative research and draft one-pagers, policy briefs, and bill summaries
Who Should Apply
Students studying law, political science, history, public administration, social work, economics, sociology, journalism, and related fields are encouraged to apply — as is anyone with a genuine interest in government, politics, and public service.
Applicants should be enrolled in an accredited 2-year or 4-year institution in or near District 91 — including LeMoyne-Owen College, the University of Memphis, Christian Brothers University, Rhodes College, and Southwest Tennessee Community College — or be a high school senior residing in the district.
Requirements
Fellows must have access to reliable transportation. This role requires flexibility in working hours, including availability during some evenings and weekends. Any student applying must be willing to commit for the entire duration of the fellowship.
Time & Term
Fellows are appointed to serve for a four-month semester during the 2025–26 calendar year. The appointment period does not necessarily match your school's semester calendar.
Spring Term: May 18, 2026 – August 31, 2026 · Where: Primarily remote, with occasional in-person meetings in Memphis · Time Commitment: ~10–15 hours per week
Benefits
- $500 stipend, paid in equal monthly installments
- Work directly with Rep. Harris and gain up-close experience in public elected office
- Serve your community at the highest levels of state public leadership
- Attend exclusive events and meetings
- Possibility of earning academic credit, if applicable
- A Team Harris t-shirt