Mayor Emily B. Jabbour today launched applications for the inaugural Vezzetti Fellowship Program, a new summer initiative designed to inspire and develop the next generation of civic leaders and public servants through direct engagement with municipal government.
The fellowship, made possible in part through a federal USDA grant and the Hudson County Summer Youth Employment Program, honors the legacy of former Hoboken Mayor Tom Vezzetti, who was known for his energetic approach to public service. Often seen carrying a bullhorn and walking the full length of Washington Street to City Hall each day, Mayor Vezzetti made it his mission to hear directly from residents and ensure they felt represented by their local government. A sign hanging in City Hall during his administration famously welcomed residents with the words: “Welcome to YOUR City Hall.”
Inspired by that spirit of accessibility and civic participation, Mayor Jabbour is inviting young residents to become part of the inaugural class of Vezzetti Fellows.
“Hoboken’s future depends on young people who are willing to engage, ask questions, challenge assumptions, and work toward solutions,” said Mayor Jabbour. “Tom Vezzetti believed City Hall belonged to the people. Through the Vezzetti Fellowship, we are opening the doors of government to a new generation of residents who care deeply about their community and want to make a difference.”
The City will select ten fellows to participate in the summer program. Fellows will gain practical experience working approximately 20 hours per week in municipal departments and divisions while learning firsthand how local government serves residents.
The program seeks Hudson County residents between the ages of 16 and 18 who are currently enrolled in school, or recent graduates with proof of college acceptance.
"I am thrilled to partner with Mayor Emily Jabbour in establishing the Vezzetti Fellowship Program,” said Hudson County Executive Craig Guy. “The Hudson County Summer Youth Employment Program creates opportunities for our young residents, allowing participants to explore different career options and develop crucial life and job skills. I am proud of this vital initiative and excited to see the next generation of future leaders develop through the Vezzetti Fellowship Program."
Participants may be assigned to divisions including:
• Engineering
• Resiliency & Sustainability
• Community Development
• Division of Housing
• City Clerk’s Office
• Division of Public Engagement
• Transportation & Parking
• Urban Forestry (proof of college acceptance not required)
Fellows will assist with project research, data collection and entry, administrative support, constituent services, and other initiatives while collaborating with City staff and department leadership.
In addition to their daily assignments, fellows will participate in weekly “Lunch & Learn” sessions featuring conversations with municipal leaders and community stakeholders, including, and former public officials, including Confidential Aide to Mayor Tom Vezzetti, Laurie Fabiano.
"Two things Tom was passionate about were community service and education,” said Fabiano. “I know that above all else, he would be thrilled to have this important Fellowship program named after him.”
"Tom believed in democracy and loved kids, so there is no doubt that he would be exuberant to see young people learn about their government and he would have encouraged them to stay involved.” said former City Councilperson Joseph Della Fave, who served on the Hoboken City Council from 1985 to 1991.
Applications are available by CLICKING HERE.
Applications must be submitted no later than Friday, June 19, at 4 p.m. And include an original 250-word essay on the importance on civic engagement.
The fellowship program will run from July 6 through Aug. 14. Participants will work Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Selected applicants will receive additional information regarding onboarding requirements and program participation following acceptance into the program.
For questions, please contact constituents@hobokennj.gov.
About the Vezzetti Fellowship Program
The Vezzetti Fellowship Program is a summer civic engagement initiative created by the City of Hoboken to provide young residents with hands-on experience in local government while honoring the legacy of former Mayor Tom Vezzetti and his commitment to accessible, people-centered public service.
