_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.

Newman Civic Fellows are recommended by college and university presidents to acknowledge motivation and ability in public leadership. Newman Civic Fellows awards are made in memory of Frank Newman, who dedicated his life to creating systemic change through education reform. Frank Newman’s leadership was selfless, optimistic, and determined, spanning an incredible career of more than five decades. At the core of Dr. Newman’s leadership was a belief in the power of individuals to make a difference and in the power of connection with others. Newman Civic Fellows form a unique network of leaders who will inspire and keep hope alive for one another during college and afterward, as the network expands exponentially each year. Frank Newman had a tremendous impact on American education and its role in the development of citizens who want to make a difference. The Newman Civic Fellows are reflections and affirmations of his life’s work.

Bethany Fristad is the founder and director of Firefleyes, a nonprofit organization that "exists to bring hope and joy to children living in impoverished communities by providing them with small treasures." Ms. Fristad seeks to build hope  in impoverished areas of Africa by working to provide for children's basic needs, as well as providing opportunities to celebrate and laugh as a community.  In addition, she volunteered for Gulf Coast restoration, and served in towns from Rutland, Vermont to San Antonio, Texas. She knows not only the statistics of poverty, malnutrition, and sickness, but also people's stories of individual experiences with hardship.  

John Killpack has volunteered over 1200 hours of service in the three years he has been a student at Buena Vista University. John has led peers in local, state, national and international service projects through his work in Student M.O.V.E. (Mobilize Outreach Volunteer Efforts).  As an AmeriCorps member and Oxfam Change Leader, John built capacity in multiple agencies and done an excellent job identifying and meeting needs.  John continues to be a motivating force in the community, building capacity and serving those in need.

Linzi Nouel Sosa, a second year nursing student at Iowa Western Community College, has spent the last several years helping the children of Haiti.  Since 2010, Linzi has spent every spring and holiday break serving people in need. Linzi continues to speak to numerous faith and community groups about her service and encourages others to get involved. Her newly developed skills in nursing will allow her to help and heal people all over the world.

Dustin Peters, a sophomore at Simpson College, leads through service. He has helped to make his fraternities, Kappa Theta Psi and Alpha Phi Omega, known for their service by organizing a charity basketball tournament, a shoe and clothing drive for families in Ghana, Africa, two blood drives, and street cleaning. Dustin has used his skill in public policy and debate as a forensics consultant and debate coach at area high schools.