Campus Compact has announced the 218 students chosen to receive the 2016 Newman Civic Fellows Award.

This award honors the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders and a tireless advocate for the civic engagement of higher education.

“We are fortunate to have the opportunity to celebrate such an extraordinary group of students,” said Campus Compact president Andrew Seligsohn. “We are seeing a resurgence in student interest in acting to create lasting social change, and this year’s Newman Civic Fellows exemplify that commitment.”

In the spirit of Dr. Newman’s leadership, Campus Compact member presidents and chancellors were encouraged to nominate undergraduate or graduate students who are proven leaders with both the motivation and ability to make substantial contributions toward public problem solving for this special recognition.

Those chosen to receive this honor will have also taken action in pursuit of long-term positive social change.

Click here for a complete list of the 2016 Newman Civic Fellows.

“My family taught me the value of engaging in and giving back to my community in order to be able to live in a society where everyone has a voice,” said Cassandra Santos, a student at Greenfield Community College. “This work allows me to help others while giving back to the GCC community that has provided me with so many opportunities.”

Campus Compact 2016 Newman Civic Fellows will represent their higher education institution in a national group of student leaders. These students will receive an award certificate and an invitation to join the Newman Civic Fellows online network. They will also be featured prominently on the Campus Compact national website and, in many cases, invited to participate in state-specific activities.

“For me, service work is crucial because I believe in supporting those in our community who have the least resources and political voice,” said Christianie DePina, a sophomore at Stonehill College. “Service is both a responsibility and a great joy.”

Campus Compact is grateful to the KPMG Foundation and Newman’s Own Foundation for their support of the 2016 Newman Civic Fellows Award.