Determined to find solutions for the challenges communities face throughout the country, four inspirational students from Oklahoma’s colleges and universities were recognized as 2022 Newman Civic Fellows during the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education meeting Thursday.
Austin Rankin of Waynoka, Northwestern Oklahoma State University; Cassidy Beck of Pawnee, Rogers State University; Cierra Estep of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma State University – Oklahoma City; and Hanna Burl of Cimarron, Kansas, Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, are among the cohort representing 38 states; Washington, D.C.; and Mexico.
The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program for students from Campus Compact member institutions. The students selected for the fellowship are leaders on their campuses who demonstrate a commitment to finding solutions for challenges facing communities locally, nationally and internationally. Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides the students with a variety of learning and networking opportunities that emphasize personal, professional and civic growth. Fellows are invited to a national conference of Newman Civic Fellows and participate in numerous virtual training and networking opportunities. The fellowship also provides pathways to apply for exclusive scholarship and post-graduate opportunities.
“These students are committed to solving challenges faced by fellow Oklahomans, and the State Regents and I are proud to recognize them for their civic leadership and community engagement,” said Chancellor Allison D. Garrett. “We wish them continued success as they complete their degrees and continue to positively impact Oklahoma, our nation and our world.”
The Newman Civic Fellows program was established by Campus Compact in honor of co-founder Frank Newman, who dedicated his life to creating opportunities for student civic learning and engagement. The award is designed to recognize college students who have demonstrated an investment in finding solutions for the challenges faced by communities across the nation through service, research and advocacy. Each of Oklahoma’s fellows will receive a $500 scholarship from Oklahoma Campus Compact. Students are nominated by their college or university president.