Charlotte E. Ray Legal Fellowship Opens Applications forb Environmental Law Program

The Conservation Law Foundation is now accepting applications for the Charlotte E. Ray Legal Fellowship. This prestigious one-year program is designed for new and recently barred lawyers passionate about environmental advocacy. The fellowship will commence in the fall of 2026.

This opportunity honors Charlotte E. Ray, the first African American female lawyer in the United States. It provides a unique pathway to a potential permanent role as an Associate Attorney.

Fellowship Offers Hands-On Legal Experience Across New England

The selected Legal Fellow will be based in one of CLF’s offices in Boston, Montpelier, Concord, Portland, Providence, or New Haven. The position includes flexibility for remote work within the New England region. According to the organization’s announcement, the fellowship is a one-year term.

Fellows will participate in rotations across CLF’s core program areas. These include clean energy, environmental justice, and clean air and water. This structure provides broad exposure to critical environmental legal work.

Program Aims to Cultivate Next Generation of Environmental Lawyers

The fellowship is a direct investment in developing new legal talent. It addresses complex environmental challenges facing communities today. The role is a key part of CLF’s long-term strategy for organizational excellence and diversity.

Fellows will engage in high-impact work, from representing CLF in litigation to advising community groups. This experience builds a strong foundation for a career in public interest environmental law. The program strengthens the legal field’s capacity for effective advocacy.

The Charlotte E. Ray Legal Fellowship represents a significant career launchpad for aspiring public interest lawyers. This program continues a legacy of breaking barriers in the legal profession. It directly tackles today’s most pressing environmental issues with a new generation of advocates.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Charlotte E. Ray?

Charlotte E. Ray was a trailblazing figure in American law. She became the first African American female lawyer in the United States after graduating from Howard University in 1872. The fellowship honors her legacy and groundbreaking achievements.

What are the salary details for the fellowship?

The fellowship offers a competitive salary based on location. Boston-based fellows will earn between $84,000 and $89,000. Fellows in other New England states will receive a salary ranging from $75,000 to $80,000.

What is the ultimate goal of this fellowship program?

The primary goal is to train and develop new legal talent in environmental law. At the end of the one-year term, fellows may be invited to join CLF as a permanent Associate Attorney. The program includes rotations across multiple environmental practice areas.

Who is eligible to apply for the Charlotte E. Ray Fellowship?

The fellowship is open to third-year law students, judicial clerks, and recent law school graduates. Applicants must have a law degree before the fellowship begins in fall 2026. Candidates should have zero to two years of relevant legal experience.

What are the main responsibilities of the Legal Fellow?

Responsibilities are comprehensive and impactful. The Fellow will help devise legal strategies, represent CLF in litigation, and develop testimony for legislative bodies. They will also build coalitions and contribute to public education materials.