Eric Hyland Public Policy Educational
Scholarship Fund
The Minnesota Governmental Relations Council (MGRC) created the Eric Hyland Public Policy Educational Scholarship Fund in 2024, which supports the next generation of public policy professionals and provides a pipeline of opportunity to the Capitol. Eric Hyland was a long-time MGRC member, MGRC Board Member, former MGRC President, and represented MGRC as a lobbyist. Eric was a pillar in St. Paul and embodied the importance of ethical and professional government affairs representation. MGRC is honored to offer this scholarship fund after Eric and to support Minnesota’s future public policy leaders.
Eric Hyland Public Scholarship Fund
The Eric Hyland Scholarship Fund, supported by the Minnesota Governmental Relations Council (MGRC) and its members, is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of public policy leaders. This fund provides meaningful support to students and professionals who are actively engaged in- or have demonstrated commitment to- public policy, advocacy, and government relations.
Eric Hyland was a long-time MGRC member, Board Member, and former President, as well as a respected lobbyist representing the organization. He was a cornerstone of the St. Paul policy and lobbying community and exemplified integrity, professionalism, and the value of ethical representation in government affairs. In his memory, MGRC is honored to offer this scholarship as an investment in Minnesota’s future public policy and advocacy professionals.
For the 2026 scholarship cycle, a total of $3,000 will be awarded, with three scholarships of $1,000 each.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Students: Current undergraduate or graduate students working in public policy, advocacy, or government relations—or those who demonstrate a strong interest in advocacy work at the Capitol.
- Lobbyists: Current MGRC members who are registered lobbyists seeking to advance their careers through higher education or fellowships. (Note: per campaign finance law, any current lobbyist who is also a local elected official is not eligible for the scholarship)
- Professionals Moving into Advocacy Roles: Capitol staff who have made the transition into lobbying roles in the past 12 months. (Note: per campaign finance law, former employees at the legislature must no longer be employed by the legislature to be eligible for the scholarship)
Application Requirements
All application materials must be submitted by January 9, 2026. A complete application includes:
- Essay (500–750 words): Respond to the prompt:
Why do you want to pursue a career in governmental affairs? What experiences, values, or goals have shaped your interest in this field? - Academic transcript (if currently enrolled as a student).
- Resume or list of extracurricular/professional activities.
Recommendation Letters
One letter of recommendation is required. Letters may be submitted by professors, mentors, employers, or community leaders who can speak to your character, accomplishments, and potential in the field of government relations.
Selection Process
The MGRC Scholarship Committee, composed of members of the Board of Directors and MGRC members, will review all complete applications. Recipients will be selected based on:
- Merit – Academic or professional achievement.
- Need – Consideration of financial circumstances.
- Alignment with mission – Demonstrated commitment to government relations and advocacy.
Final selections will be announced by April 3, 2026.
Award Disbursement
Scholarship awards will be distributed directly to recipients in the form of a check. Recipients will also receive a Form 1099 for tax purposes and are encouraged to consult with a tax advisor regarding reporting requirements. Eligible applicants who receive awards are not eligible to apply for the scholarship again.
