Trinity Kamami and Brontë Pepper-Hicks selected as 2026 Legislative Fellows

Delaware State University students Brontë E. Pepper-Hicks and Trinity Kamami have been selected as Legislative Fellows with the Delaware General Assembly for the 2026 legislative session. The competitive program allows students to actively participate in the legislative process by working alongside state lawmakers and their staff.

The Legislative Fellows Program gives students from across the state the opportunity to step into the heart of Delaware’s legislative process. Fellows work directly with lawmakers and peers from the University of Delaware, supporting Senate and House committees and conducting nonpartisan research on current public policy issues.

For Pepper-Hicks, a senior double majoring in political science and sociology, the fellowship represents a continuation of a path she has been building throughout her time at DSU. Originally from Southern Maryland, she plans to attend law school after graduation and has already gained experience through internships with the Architect of the Capitol at the Supreme Court, U.S. Sen. Chris Coons, and the Delaware Department of State.

“My experiences at Del State have prepared me for this fellowship through excellent political science and sociology departments,” Pepper-Hicks said. “My mentors have aided me through different challenges across my academic career, and I am extremely grateful to have them in my corner pushing for my success. I am excited to complete meaningful policy research and contribute to the legislative process. Being able to support the progression of Delaware firsthand will be incredibly rewarding.”

Pepper-Hicks is especially interested in conducting research focused on prison reform and minority inclusion.

Kamami, a junior political science major with a minor in international studies, is a Delaware native from Smyrna who sees the fellowship as a chance to better understand how ideas become law and how policy decisions shape communities.

“Attending Delaware State University has placed me in conversations and environments I never imagined being part of,” Kamami said. “DSU has taught me how to open doors for myself by getting involved, seeking mentorship, and intentionally expanding my professional network. The university’s commitment to experiential learning and public service has strengthened my confidence, sharpened my analytical skills, and prepared me to engage meaningfully in policy spaces where I feel welcomed.”

Kamami is eager to observe every stage of the legislative process.

“I am most interested in mastering how ideas in practice pass through the committees, debates, amendments, and final votes,” Kamami said. “I want to learn about the negotiations, research, and bipartisan partnerships that influence the lawmaking process in Delaware. Seeing this from inside the General Assembly will give me a clearer picture of how state policy is actually carried out.”

Both students said their experiences at DSU played a key role in preparing them for the fellowship. As Legislative Fellows, Pepper-Hicks and Kamami will assist lawmakers throughout the session while gaining insight that will help shape their academic and professional futures.