Senior Fellows Program

Established and funded in the California Budget Act of 2019, the UC|CSU Collaborative Senior Fellows Program is sponsored by the UC|CSU Collaborative for Neuroscience, Diversity, and Learning. This program, designed with the professional demands of legislators in mind, endeavors to bridge the extensive academic resources of the University of California and California State University systems toward linking and translating emerging neuroscience research on learning into evidence-based policy, practice, and preparation programs across California.

The UC|CSU Collaborative Senior Fellows Program:

Will be comprised of a bi-partisan group of participants, including legislators serving on P-16 education-related committees, philanthropic leaders, top education and neuroscience researchers from the University of California and California State University Systems, and California teachers who understand the daily issues that impede student learning
Will convene 2 in-person gatherings with times and locations chosen to accommodate the legislative calendar and professional obligations of participants
Will offer an in-depth look into the most pressing educational issues of today
Will build a network of thought leaders to shape better teaching and learning methodologies for California’s schools

We envision the UC|CSU Collaborative Senior Fellows Program emulating a laboratory in which policymakers can create a feedback and networking loop as they study various educational challenges and solutions with researchers, teachers, and philanthropists toward improved educational outcomes for all types of learners. While insights from guest experts are valuable, even more significant will be the dialogue, learning, and relationship-building among this distinguished group of visionaries.

If you would like to be considered for participation in this groundbreaking initiative please contact Patrick Brennan, Director of Policy, Philanthropy, and Partnerships, at patrickcbrennan@g.ucla.edu.

Education Policy Initiative Internship

"We are just really getting going, but we are excited about this new effort,” Brennan says. “This internship equips students with a comprehensive understanding of education policymaking at different levels of government, empowers them to engage in informed discussions and advocate for positive change. Importantly, it prepares and encourages students to pursue careers in education policy analysis, advocacy, or administration.”

The Education Policy Initiative is an internship for UCLA undergraduates that delves into the complexities of education policymaking in the United States at the local, state, and federal levels. Students will explore the institutions, actors, historical context, and policy issues that shape education policy. They will also learn to critically assess the impact of policies on students, teachers, and communities.

Internship Objectives:

Understand the structure and functions of education policymaking at the local, state, and federal levels.
Explore the roles of key stakeholders, including government agencies, school boards, teachers, parents, and students
Examine the major policy areas in education, such as funding, curriculum, assessment, and equity.
Develop research and analytical skills for policy analysis and advocacy.
Discuss current challenges and debates in education policymaking.