What is the NAECR Policy Fellows Program?

The NAECR Policy Fellows Program features a series of informal conversations among
First Five Nebraska and NAECR early childhood researchers at the University of Nebraska.

NAECR is accepting applications for the 2025-26 Policy Fellows Program.

Apply Now! View Fellows

What are the objectives?

To educate NU early childhood researchers on state policy processes, impacts and relationships to research.
To provide the Nebraska policy community with insight into the University of Nebraska’s latest early childhood research.
To create meaningful, bidirectional connections and collaborations between the research and policy communities to develop a policy-relevant research agenda and enrich early childhood experiences.

How does it work?

NAECR selects early childhood researchers to participate in the program, which takes place every other year. Participation includes four conversations over the course of the academic year and participation in a culminating activity (e.g., presentation, panel). Fellows are expected to engage in and contribute to an active, ongoing and supportive dialogue about the connections between policy and research.

Representatives from First Five Nebraska will provide insight into policy process, impact and the relationship between policy and research.

Participants must be current NU faculty or current NU administrative research personnel.

Policy Fellows alumni group

The alumni group consists of all past NAECR policy fellows who are still part of the University of Nebraska system. The group meets virtually with First Five Nebraska twice a year to learn about early childhood legislation being presented each legislative session and discuss ongoing opportunities for collaboration and partnership.