Shenandoah Grad Receives Competitive Governor’s Office Fellowship

A recent Shenandoah University graduate is one of the 30 students from Virginia colleges and universities selected for the 2026 cohort of the Governor’s Fellows Program.

Jaxson Hall ’26, who earned his Bachelor of Science in psychology in three years, said he applied for the fellows program because he wanted to gain relevant, hands-on experience in public service – particularly state government. 

I’ve spent my entire life in Virginia, so being able to give back to the commonwealth while learning how policy is developed and implemented felt super meaningful. I also saw it as a chance to grow professionally and learn from leaders who are making an impact across the state.”

Jaxson Hall ’26 | Bachelor of Science, psychology

A select group

The competitive program for talented rising college seniors, recent college graduates, and graduate students received a record number of applications. Those selected take part in an eight-week paid fellowship experience in the governor’s office and the governor’s cabinet. The summer program, established in 1982, provides participants with opportunities to work in the governor’s administration and address challenges. They also visit state agencies and historic sites as well as hear from guest speakers, states a governor’s office press release. The program began on June 8, and continues through July 31. 

Hall said he was shocked to receive the honor, but that feeling quickly turned to excitement.

I knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn from people doing important work and to gain experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise.” 

Jaxson Hall ’26 | Bachelor of Science, psychology

“Our commonwealth is home to some of the brightest young minds in the world,” Governor Abigail Spanberger states in the press release. “The Governor’s Fellows Program brings together talented students from across Virginia and introduces them to careers serving their neighbors as part of state government. I know our fellows will not only gain invaluable experience through this program, but I am also confident that they will influence positive change as we work to make Virginia stronger, safer, and more affordable for all.”

Excellent preparation

The program’s focus aligns well with Shenandoah’s, when one considers Hall’s assessment of what makes the university special. “One of Shenandoah’s greatest strengths is the people,” he said. “Because of the close-knit campus community, you’re able to build genuine relationships with professors, staff, and classmates who are invested in your success. Those connections open doors to opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. If you’re willing to get involved and take initiative, there are so many ways to grow personally, academically, and professionally at SU.” Hall grew in all of those ways, by being a student-athlete, active in student government and an essential part of other student organizations. 

He did it all while earning his bachelor’s on an accelerated schedule. “I was fortunate to come into college from high school with a number of credits through dual enrollment and AP classes,” he said. “From there, I was also able to take advantage of J-Term and summer courses whenever I could.”

A dedication to improving lives

Following the fellows program, he’s headed back into the classroom, this time as a graduate student. This fall, he’ll start a master’s program in clinical psychology at American University in Washington, D.C.

Long term, I hope to earn my Ph.D. and become a sport psychologist. I also want to continue being involved in public service and find ways to improve mental health, whether that’s through my career, research, or future opportunities in government.”

Jaxson Hall ’26 | Bachelor of Science, psychology

It looks like he’s on the right track to make those goals come true.