Williams Mullen UVA 1L Leadership Fellowship - ...

Closing Date: 11th January, 2026

Description:

The Williams Mullen UVA 1L Leadership Fellowship is inspired by the successful and impactful careers of UVA Law alumni at the firm. These professionals include successful associates, partners, and our current president and CEO, Woody Fowler. Over the years, UVA Law graduates have become integral members of the Williams Mullen team, holding leadership positions across the firm's numerous practice areas and committees. These alumni have helped shaped the firm's culture and devotion to legal excellence, directly contributing to the firm's growth and reputation for finding yes®.

UVA Law alumni at Williams Mullen are known for their commitment to mentorship, professional development, leadership, and community involvement. These professionals work closely with clients in dynamic and evolving industries, often representing both Fortune 500 companies and local businesses. Their success at Williams Mullen reflects the high caliber of legal education at UVA Law, and they serve as exceptional role models for fellowship participants.

The Williams Mullen UVA 1L Leadership Fellow will have the opportunity to be mentored by UVA Law alumni and other exceptional attorneys, who will share their insights into navigating both the legal profession and the culture of the firm. The fellow will also gain invaluable exposure to the firm's collaborative and client-focused environment, where teamwork and innovation are highly valued. As a fellow in the firm's Summer Associate Program, there is an unparalleled chance to learn from some of the most respected legal professionals in the industry, all while strengthening connections to the UVA Law alumni network.

The Williams Mullen UVA 1L Leadership Fellowship is designed to help aspiring attorneys develop skills while benefitting from the experience and guidance of UVA Law alumni at Williams Mullen, fostering a future generation of lawyers committed to excellence, client service, and community engagement. The firm will award one 1L law student from UVA with:
A paid 9-week position in Williams Mullen's 2026 Summer Associate Program beginning May 18, 2026, and

Priority consideration for an offer of 2L summer employment.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria
This is a merit-based fellowship. A selection panel including members of the Recruiting Committee, firm leadership and alumni will interview finalists and select the recipient of the Williams Mullen UVA 1L Leadership Fellowship. The selection committee will search for future indicators of success and commitment to fostering growth, collaboration, and community relationships.

Applicants Must Meet the Following Criteria:

• First-year law student at The University of Virginia
• Demonstrated leadership qualities, work experience, and/or community involvement
• Authorized to work in the U.S.*
• Excellent undergraduate and law school academic performance and involvement
• Ability to join the 2026 Williams Mullen Summer Program
• Strong interest in working at the firm for a second summer and joining the firm as an associate after law school graduation

Application Process:
Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis from Saturday, November 1, 2025, through 5 pm Sunday, January 11, 2026. To be considered, candidates must apply online and submit the following:

• Resume with undergraduate GPA listed;
• Transcript with first semester law school grades (once available)**;
• Directed personal statement that
• describes your leadership, personal achievements, and/or experiences which have shaped your character and been impactful as you enter the legal field;
• exemplifies your desire and commitment to work at Williams Mullen as well as in the city where the Williams Mullen office is located, or describe how your background and values align with and would enhance the culture and core values of Williams Mullen; and
• is a maximum of two (2) pages and double-spaced.

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