In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "apply now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen.
OVERVIEW
The Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Black College Football Hall of Fame have collaborated to provide a prestigious career advancement opportunity at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, to a graduate of a Historically Black College & University.
The ideal candidate is an individual who is a creative and strategic thinker and will immerse himself or herself into the Pro Football Hall of Fame culture that is deeply rooted in the important Mission to “Honor the Heroes of the Game, Preserve its History, Promote its Values & Celebrate Excellence Together!”
ABOUT THE BLACK COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME
The BCFHOF was founded by two legendary NFL quarterbacks and African-American pioneers James Harris and Doug Williams. Under their leadership, the BCFHOF has continued to grow, providing a meaningful platform to share the history and stories of the greatest HBCU football players, coaches and contributors.
In 2016, the BCFHOF and the PFHOF entered into a historical partnership. Thirty-four members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, representing almost 10% of those enshrined in Canton, attended an HBCU.
As a result, the BCFHOF will have a permanent home at the Pro Football Hall of Fame to tell the story of the greatest legends who attended HBCUs. The two organizations will work together on joint programs and events including: hosting the annual BCFHOF induction ceremony; expanded educational programming and special events at the PFHOF during Black History Month; a travelling exhibition; and post-graduate internship opportunities for graduates of HBCUs. The partnership also includes a Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic to be held at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium and a major permanent exhibition inside the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
FELLOWSHIP DESCRIPTION
The Black College Football Hall of Fame, in partnership with the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is dedicated to growing tomorrow’s leaders who demonstrate the values of Commitment, Integrity, Courage, Respect and Honesty.
The James Harris-Doug Williams Fellowship at the Pro Football Hall of Fame provides a post- graduate fellowship opportunity to recent college graduates from an accredited HBCU. The fellowship is a 12-month paid position for a graduate with high academic standing and moral character who seek to become part of a culture that fosters teamwork and inspirational leadership. Participants will experience hands-on projects, networking opportunities with Pro Football Hall of Fame management team and industry influencers. The PFHOF and the Black College Football Hall of Fame are deeply focused on personal development and growth of the individual(s) granted the Fellowship to ensure post-graduation success. The fellow will work collaboratively with department heads and team members on a multitude of projects, tasks and initiatives.
Departments at the PFHOF include:
Museum Services
- Marketing & Communications
- Finance
- Sponsorship
- Events & Hospitality
- Youth & Education
- Retail
- Hall of Fame Productions
- Operations & Facilities Management
“The James Harris - Doug Williams Fellowship is a tremendous and unique opportunity for graduates seeking to start a career in the sports world.”
– Akil Blount (first James Harris- Doug Williams Fellow)
JAMES HARRIS – DOUG WILLIAMS FELLOWSHIP QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum requirements include:
- A bachelor’s or graduate degree from an accredited HBCU
- A 3.0 cumulative grade point average
- Ability to relocate to Canton, Ohio, for a minimum of one year
- Willing to work various hours, including some evenings and weekends
- Successful background check, if applicable
- Professional and positive attitude
- Eager to learn and willing to take on challenging projects
- Strong attention to detail and written/oral communications skills are essential
- Organized, creative, and analytical thinker
- Problem solving skills
- Strong research skills
- Strong teamwork skills
Preferred qualifications:
- Completion of a degree in a sports-related field (not required)
- A passion for/understanding of football and its role within the community
- Knowledge of software tools (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Keynote)
JAMES HARRIS – DOUG WILLIAMS FELLOWSHIP APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
- Cover letter which includes why the James Harris - Doug Williams Fellowship interests you and how you believe the fellowship would help you achieve your career goals
- Resume
- Two professional or academic letters of recommendation
- Two character letters of recommendation
The Pro Football Hall of Fame is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.
