Open Communities Alliance: Pottenger Fellowship

Open Communities Alliance (OCA) seeks one full-time law student fellow for summer 2026.

About OCA

OCA is a civil rights organization that works to redress generations of discriminatory actions and policies based on race, ethnicity, and income to create open and inclusive housing opportunities in historically exclusionary communities, and to bring investments and equitable policy change that generate meaningful improvements in under-resourced communities of color.

About Jay Pottenger

J. L. Pottenger, Jr. (“Jay”), a co-founder of OCA, was a tireless advocate for fair housing and equal justice. His dedication to OCA remains at the heart of our work to unwind Connecticut’s stark history of government perpetuated segregation and our effort to reduce social, economic, and health disparities experienced by low-income families of color. Jay also demonstrated his passion for housing justice through his devotion to the Yale Law School Clinical Program, where he served as a professor and mentor for 45 years. Jay's legacy of a life devoted to service is being honored with The Pottenger Fellowship Fund.

The Pottenger Fellowship

The Pottenger Fellowship offers law students nationwide an unparalleled opportunity to delve into a legal/public policy career with a focus on strategies that address housing segregation and its impact. Fellows will explore the historical and legal foundations of housing segregation, hone their advocacy and organizing skills, and deepen their knowledge of housing justice-related legislation and litigation. This immersive program equips Fellows with practical expertise and lays the groundwork for their long-term professional growth.

Pottenger Fellows will contribute to OCA’s groundbreaking work to redress housing segregation, with an emphasis on fair housing, zoning reform and voucher choice/mobility. Fellows will work closely with the OCA Legal Team with opportunities for legal research and writing, policy development and advocacy, and direct client casework. In addition, Fellows will work collaboratively with OCA’s Policy and Advocacy teams, gaining the benefit of OCA’s interdisciplinary approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a stipend available?

OCA is committed to fostering a nurturing and equitable work environment. If a Pottenger Fellow does not receive a stipend through their academic institution, OCA will provide a stipend of $8,000 to offset daily expenses such as housing, transportation and meals. This Fellowship offers valuable hands-on experience in a dynamic and supportive setting, and we ensure that Fellows are financially supported so they can fully engage with and benefit from their experience with us.

How long is the Fellowship?

Fellowships are typically available for 10 to 12 weeks over the summer.

Is the Fellowship in-office?

This is a hybrid role with at least one in-office day per week at OCA's Hartford office.

What are the qualifications?

Eligible candidates:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States;
• Must be an enrolled law student; and
• Should have an interest in affordable housing policy, housing data, zoning policies, racial equity, and regionalism.

When is the deadline to apply?

OCA is currently accepting applications for candidates interested in becoming Pottenger Fellows during the Summer of 2026. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, with priority given to applications submitted by March 6, 2026.

How do I apply?

To apply, please fill out the online application here: Pottenger Fellowship Application. If you have any questions about the Fellowship, please contact Abi Dresser (adresser@ctoca.org).

• If you require a disability related accommodation to submit your application, please email apply@ctoca.org. Otherwise, due to high email volume, we are unable to respond to queries about application status.

OCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other status protected by law.

Research has shown that traditionally marginalized communities (people of color, people with disabilities, etc.) often don’t apply for jobs if they don’t meet every single qualification. If you think you can do this job but don’t meet every qualification, we encourage you to still apply.

We seek to build diversity, equity, and inclusion both within our organization and in partnership and allyship with the communities we serve.