The James Madison Fellowship program was created by Congress in 1986 in order to improve teaching about the American Constitution. For secondary school teachers of American history, it offers both financial aid for masters work and a unique study opportunity. Madison fellows commit to completing an MA, MAT, or MEd within five years of beginning part-time study and to attend, during the term of their fellowship, a four-week summer institute on American Constitutionalism at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Fellows agree to teach American history, American government, or social studies within grades 78 for at least one year for each year of aid received.

The program is highly selective, aiming to enhance understanding of constitutional principles among the nations most excellent teachers, so as to support their professional development and benefit the students they teach. Each year at least one current history teacher from each state and US territory is awarded a senior fellowship. Junior fellowships are offered to outstanding college seniors and graduates without teaching experience who intend to teach American history or government. The program is supported by Congressional appropriations and private contributions.

In addition to Chip Abolafia, the MAHG program is pleased to have seven Madison Fellows among currently enrolled students: Mary Browning-Huntington of Tennessee, Erik Iverson of South Dakota, Rachel Lau of Hawaii, and three Fellows from Ohio, Debbie Kurtz, Heather Merckens and Amy Peters.