Kaitlyn Barlow, a 2L, has volunteered in every local and national election since she was in the eighth grade. Driven by the belief that the most impactful political decisions are made at the local level, she applied for the Carl “Tobey” Oxholm Summer Fellowship and won. The award will support Barlow during a summer internship at Philadelphia’s Office of the City Solicitor.

“As I picture my future as a legal professional,” said Barlow, “I have always returned to the idea that I feel it is my duty to give back and use my training to advance and advocate on behalf of the general public and particularly those who need it most. This can take many forms. However, I’d like to start that work at home.”

Barlow views research and analysis of legal and policy issues as vital to producing good legislation and hopes for a placement in the Law Department’s Legislation and Legal Counsel Unit. “The prospect of assisting the city in implementing and reviewing legislation in a legally responsible manner is extremely meaningful,” said Barlow. “I sincerely hope I can play a role in shaping the lives of Philadelphians in this way.” She will begin her fellowship on June 1, 2021.

Within the Kline School of Law community, Barlow is known for her dedication to service. “Kaitlyn exemplifies the very best of our school’s commitment to public service,” said Donna Gerson, associate dean of career strategies. “I believe Kaitlyn will excel in her role this summer and learn an enormous amount about the City of Philadelphia. We are deeply grateful that Tobey Oxholm funds this fellowship to help cultivate the next generation of lawyers in the Philadelphia City Law Department.”

The Oxholm Fellowship, which is funded by a gift from former Drexel Senior Vice President and General Counsel Carl “Tobey” Oxholm III, is awarded annually to a student who has demonstrated an interest in a career in local government.