AY 24-25 MRISJ Justice Fellow

Justice Fellow Program Description The mission of the Martin Richard Institute for Social Justice (MRISJ) is to build knowledge about social justice, to develop skills for advancing social justice through individual and collective action, and to serve as a catalyst for actualizing Bridgewater State University’s commitment to social justice.

The MRISJ is seeking undergraduate students to serve as Justice Fellows for the 24-25 academic year. Justice Fellows promote civic engagement and social justice on campus and in the community. The Justice Fellow program pairs undergraduate students with a nonprofit organization or a campus initiative for a community-based learning experience. Students engage in project-based work to advance the mission of the community organization and develop skills and knowledge of different strategies of positive social change. The Justice Fellow program engages students in meaningful work around topics such as educational equity, youth development, and voter engagement through strategies such as advocacy and raising awareness, community organizing, volunteerism and voter education.

A MRISJ staff member serves as an advisor to support student’s community work and increase their understanding of social justice, civic engagement, and social change. Justice Fellows are part of a cohort of passionate students that meet regularly to integrate education and critical reflection into their experience.

Roles & Responsibilities Justice Fellows will: Commit to working up to 14 hours per week over the academic year according to the following breakdown: 10 hours of direct project-based work with Host Site Up to 2 hours of training and reflection with Justice Fellow cohort at BSU Up to 2 hours of travel (as it applies to role) Engage in project-based work that assists the Host Site with meeting their mission as determined by the Host Site and outlined in the approved, individual workplan. Meet regularly and communicate consistently with MRISJ staff and Host Site supervisors for guidance and supervision. Attend and actively participate in all scheduled Justice Fellow training workshops and meetings with Justice Fellow cohort. Set goals to develop and strengthen transferable professional skills and skills for civic agency. Create a visual display at the end of the program year that showcases their experience and learning. Maintain up to date and accurate documentation of work performed and tasks completed including timesheets, journals and workplan updates. Serve as an ambassador between the Host Site and the BSU community, to enhance the work of the agency and promote Host Site opportunities and events to the BSU community. Fellows will be expected to represent the MRISJ in various capacities across campus to provide a student’s perspective of the work of the MRISJ, including but not limited to, staffing informational tables or events, presenting to classes or students clubs, and sharing about their experience with small or large groups. Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
To succeed in this role, you will need: Previous experience with volunteer work, internship(s), job(s) and/or other community involvement. Demonstrated passion for social justice and civic engagement along with a steadfast commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion. Ability to work collaboratively with staff and other students. Ability to be flexible and adaptable within a fast-paced, nonprofit environment. Strong oral and written communication skills to convey ideas and information with students, staff, and host sites. Strong time management skills and ability to self-motivate and work independently once provided instruction. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Seeking experience working with peers in a leadership capacity. Requirements Positions may be contingent upon additional background checks as requested by community organizations to adhere to each organization’s protocols. Must be enrolled in at least 6 credits at Bridgewater State University in good standing for both fall 2024 and spring 2025. Students are responsible for organizing their own reliable transportation to and from off-campus sites. Arrangements for mileage reimbursement or ride share services are available by request on a case-by-case basis.
Qualifications:
To succeed in this role, you will need: Previous experience with volunteer work, internship(s), job(s) and/or other community involvement. Demonstrated passion for social justice and civic engagement along with a steadfast commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion. Ability to work collaboratively with staff and other students. Ability to be flexible and adaptable within a fast-paced, nonprofit environment. Strong oral and written communication skills to convey ideas and information with students, staff, and host sites. Strong time management skills and ability to self-motivate and work independently once provided instruction. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Seeking experience working with peers in a leadership capacity. Requirements Positions may be contingent upon additional background checks as requested by community organizations to adhere to each organization’s protocols. Must be enrolled in at least 6 credits at Bridgewater State University in good standing for both fall 2024 and spring 2025. Students are responsible for organizing their own reliable transportation to and from off-campus sites. Arrangements for mileage reimbursement or ride share services are available by request on a case-by-case basis.

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