The Patman Center for Civic and Political Engagement proudly funds the annual Public Service Leadership Weekend (PSLW) hosted by the LBJ School of Public Affairs. The LBJ Public Service Leadership Weekend serves to empower students from various backgrounds to consider pursuing graduate degrees in public policy, fostering the next generation of Texas civic leaders. During this weekend-long conference, participants will gain insight into evolving policy issues with a federal, state, and local lens, and produce innovative solutions. Students gain personal and professional advocacy skills, explore bipartisan approaches to impacting change, and learn the nuances of governance in the modern age. Through conversations with people involved in academic, non-profit, and public service spheres, students are equipped with the know-how to change the world.
Who Should Apply?
Rising college sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent college graduates interested in public service and a public policy graduate education are encouraged to apply for the program. We accept applications from students across the country, but we also love to support young Texans who are interested in learning and investing in their home state.
In our 2026 PSLW cohort, our largest cohort to date, we served 52 students from 31 different institutions across the country.
Regardless of where you are in your academic journey, this opportunity can help you better navigate your educational and career goals.
Benefits to Participants
Fully funded travel to and from Austin, TX
Airfare and other travel expenses covered.
Free-on-campus housing and catered meals at the University of Texas at Austin.
Networking Opportunities
Network with current LBJ School students, alumni, program alumni, and program participants as you consider graduate programs and careers in public service.
Professional Skill Development
Developing skills that will help you carry out passion projects from idea to implementation.
Navigating civil discourse and consensus building
Not only does PSLW expose students to civic leaders and experiential learning, but it also provides an opportunity for students to build a network of fellow young people interested in pursuing roles in public service. These relationships are foundational for young professionals and will help participants to work through complex policy and governance problems together in the future. We hope the weekend will act as a catalyst for participants educational and professional life!
If you are interested in becoming a part of the next generation of Texas civic leaders, apply to attend!
Program Timeline
PSLW is typically hosted every year in mid to late July, and takes place over a four day period from Thursday through Sunday. Applications open each year in the winter and close the following spring.
The 2027 Cohort Application opens December 1st, 2026.
Application Process
Once applications to join the PSLW cohort open, we ask that applicants submit the following materials:
- Personal Essay on provided prompt
- Application ( Personal and Educational Information )
- Resume
The selection process for applicants does not include an interview. Instead a selection committee made up of LBJ staff and professionals choose the cohort based on the strength of their application material.
Interested in Learning More?
If you have questions about Public Service Leadership Weekend applications, programming, or logistics, please feel free to contact our Director of Student Access and Civic Education, Chris Cutkelvin or the LBJ Office of Student Affairs and Admissions at LBJOSAA@austin.utexas.edu
