Three Class of 2016 Graduates Receive Star of the North Fellowships

Jonathan Estes, Dara Johnson-Ayodele, and Hal Spott, all members of the Law School’s class of 2016, have been named Star of the North Fellows by the state of Minnesota. Each will spend the next year in a salaried position at a state agency that aligns with their educational background and professional interests—Estes at the Department of Transportation’s aeronautics office, Johnson-Ayodele in purchasing and service delivery at the Department of Human Services, and Spott in fleet and surplus at the Department of Administration. The Star of the North program, now in its third year, is intended to expand the state’s workforce and attract talented young people to public service. Twelve fellows are selected each year.

“Gov. Dayton and Lt. Gov. Smith are committed to building a 21st-century workforce that is reflective of all of the communities the state serves,” said Dayton’s chief of staff, Jaime Tincher. “The 12 individuals chosen for the 2016 Star of the North Fellowships are ambitious, driven, and committed to public service. We are excited about the contributions they will bring to state government and to public service that benefits all Minnesotans for years to come.”

In addition to helping fellowship recipients gain public service experience, the Star of the North program is also seen as a critical element of the state’s effort to increase diversity and address an aging workforce. The Dayton administration has set a goal of having people of color comprise 20% of state workers by 2019. Since launching the program, more than 60% of the fellows have found permanent positions within Minnesota state government.

“The Law School is thrilled that our graduates will serve the state of Minnesota through the Star of the North program,” said Amanda Furst, assistant director of the Law School’s Career Center. “The program has allowed our alumni to gain experience and launch their careers in public service, and we’re excited to see three more of our recent graduates gain this valuable experience."