The Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter National Bar Association (VHFCNBA) is proud to introduce its Summer Scholars Program, launching in Summer 2026. This initiative expands pathways for law students to gain meaningful legal experience, mentorship, and professional exposure across Florida’s legal landscape.

Why Participate?

• Strengthen Florida’s Pipeline: Support emerging lawyers with substantive work and mentorship.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Highlight your commitment to expanding access and opportunity in the legal profession.
• Statewide Visibility: Participating organizations will be recognized in VHFCNBA communications and statewide events.
• Invest in Future Talent: Help shape the next generation of Florida attorneys.

Ways to Participate

Host a Scholar – Private Firms & Corporate Legal Departments

• Provide a paid summer placement for a minimum of 6 weeks, for 20-40 hours per week.
• Compensation: Minimum $25/hour (hosts may set higher rates).
• Hosts must designate an attorney mentor to supervise and support the Scholar.

Host a Scholar with Support – Government Agencies, Judiciary & Nonprofits

• Provide a paid summer placement for a minimum of 6 weeks for 20-40 hours per week.
• Government, judiciary, and non-profits may host an intern with support from the VHFCNBA Summer Scholars Fund to help cover a stipend of $500/week.
• Hosts must designate an attorney mentor to supervise and support the Scholar.

 Sponsor a Scholar

Organizations that cannot host a Scholar may contribute financially to support a Scholar’s placement with a government agency, the judiciary, or a nonprofit. $3,000 covers a full stipend for a summer placement. Any amount contributed toward this goal helps support the placement of a Summer Scholar. Click here to donate.

Contact us via e-mail at vhfcnba@gmail.com for additional information.