J. L. Pottenger, Jr. ("Jay") was a tireless advocate for fair housing and equal justice, expressed through his dedication to Open Communities Alliance (OCA), of which he was a co-founder.  OCA works to unwind Connecticut's stark history of government-perpetuated segregation and its impact as part of an effort to reduce social, economic, and health disparities experienced by low-income families of color.

Jay also demonstrated his passion for housing justice through his devotion to the Yale Law School Clinical Program, where he served as a professor and mentor for 45 years. Jay gave students clinical experience working on a variety of projects, including OCA matters ranging from legislative advocacy to federal litigation. Jay was a rare combination of teacher, advocate, litigator, counselor, and visionary champion for justice.  He would fight for the rights of the oppressed when no one else would.

Jay's legacy of a life devoted to service is being honored with the Pottenger Fellowship Fund. This Fund provides stipends to graduate and law school students interning at Open Communities Alliance.

During their time with OCA, Pottenger Fellows will learn the history and laws of housing segregation, gain skills in advocacy and organizing, and deepen their understanding of legislation and litigation. The Pottenger Fellowship is open to undergraduate and graduate/law students, with a focus on students in, or interested in attending, law school. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Pottenger Fellowship application page.

We invite you to contribute to the Fund as a way to honor Jay, advance OCA's mission, and join us as we nurture young people in their pursuit of justice, fair housing and a more equitable world.