2024 2024: Political Science History dual major student honored as Newman Civic Fellow

Kelsey Wink recognized for commitment to solving public problems

Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education, has named the student civic leaders from 38 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico, who will make up the 2024-2025 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows. Kelsey Wink, a junior Political Science and History student, was named a cohort member.

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. The fellowship is named after the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact's founders, who tirelessly advocated for civic engagement in higher education. In the spirit of Dr. Newman's leadership, each fellow is nominated by their campus president or chancellor, who is invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year.

"Before I even entered college, I made a goal for myself to become more involved in the campus community and engage in any way I possibly could," said Wink. "Through my diverse roles, I hope to create a more inclusive, supportive, and vibrant campus environment at UMass Dartmouth."

Wink's dedication to service and involvement in UMass Dartmouth organizations have solidified her leadership reputation. As an active Student Government Association (SGA) member, Wink serves as a Senator for the College of Arts and Sciences, the Library, Research, and Technology Standing Committee chair, and the SGA Recording Secretary. Her leadership extends across campus, from being a student-athlete on the softball team to tutoring in the Writing and Multiliteracy Center and as a Resident Assistant.

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides these students with learning and networking opportunities that help to nurture their development as civic leaders. Programming emphasizes personal, professional, and civic growth that can empower them to collaborate effectively across disciplines and create large-scale positive change.

The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows, which offers intensive in-person skill-building and networking over three days. The fellowship also provides fellows with pathways to apply for exclusive opportunities, including mini-grants to help fund community projects, scholarships, and post-graduate opportunities.

"We are honored to recognize such an outstanding group of community-committed students," said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. "One of the best parts of the Newman Civic Fellowships is the richness of students' perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds—and how these varied stories all led to their passionate engagement with the social, political, and environmental issues impacting our world. These students will be the catalysts for change on many levels, and we are privileged to help empower them to create that change."

The Newman Civic Fellowship is generously supported by The Allstate Foundation. Read more about each of the student leaders selected for this year's cohort.