Campus Compact Impact Award Winner – Debra Gibes
Nadinne I. Cruz Community Engagement Professional Award
Newman Civic Fellows Award
The Newman Civic Fellows Award honors inspiring college student leaders who have demonstrated an investment in finding solutions for challenges facing communities throughout the country. Through service, research, and advocacy, Newman Civic Fellows are making the most of their college experiences to better understand themselves, the root causes of social issues, and effective mechanisms for creating lasting change. These students represent the next generation of public problem solvers and civic leaders. They serve as national examples of the role that higher education can—and does—play in building a better world. The Newman Civic Fellows Awards are made possible through the generous support of the KPMG Foundation.
Meet Michigan’s Newman Civic Fellows for 2020-2021:
Meredith Days
University of Michigan
Class of 2021
Major: Public Policy with a focus area in Democratic Access
Minor: Community Action and Social Change
Growing up, my parents taught me to value and uplift the communities around me, especially through direct service. As a freshman in college, however, my focus began to shift from just serving the community at a surface level to understanding what causes systemic inequalities and what I can do to make a difference. Read more…
Brooke Galloway
Central Michigan University
Class of 2021
Major: Communications
Minor: Leadership and Youth Studies
Just as a wound on our skin needs fresh air and medicine to heal from the inside out, so too do the wounds and injustices of our society need special care to heal correctly and fully. I believe that the most effective way to address the root causes of social issues is to have open and honest dialogues with those affected most by the “wounds” of society and bring the issues to the surface. Read more…
Guadalupe Guerrero
Mott Community College
Class of 2020
Major: Biochemistry
I am tired, yet I am tirelessly working for change. Throughout this year, I have been active at my college and in my community addressing issues of inequity and injustice. To address sexual assault, I helped plan the first Greater Flint “Take Back the Night” event, where our community stood together to advocate for the victims by organizing a rally, march, and speak-outs for victims to share their stories. Read more…
Steffanie Hills
Schoolcraft College
Class of 2022
Majors: Nursing-ADN and Business Management
As a nursing and business management student, I like to consider myself a natural leader that genuinely wants to help, motivate, and give back to those around me. Becoming an Honors Scholar and President of Schoolcraft’s PTK Honor Society has allowed me to create numerous opportunities that implement change on campus and throughout my community.
Nicholas Piner
Michigan State University
Class of 2021
Majors: Human Biology, Physiology, and Neuroscience
I first became exposed to societal hardship while volunteering for an Austrian Red Cross food shelter as a US student ambassador when I was in high school. That experience had a significant impact on me and my desire to help people. I soon realized that poverty is just one of a number of areas in need of help. Read more…