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UNO Students: Apply to become a 2026 Newman Civic Fellow and Make an Impact

Are you passionate about solving challenges in your community? The 2026 Newman Civic Fellowship application is open! UNO students who are changemakers and public problem-solvers are encouraged to apply by Wednesday, April 1, 2026, by midnight (12 P.M.).

  • published: 2026/02/05
  • contact: Robyn Loos - UNO Office of Engagement
  • email: rloos@unomaha.edu
Photo of newman civic fellowship experience at one of the leadership activities.

Omaha, NE – Contact Anna Spethman at aspethman@unomaha.edu for questions and additional information.

Eligibility:

  • Be currently enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate program at UNO.
  • Have at least one year of education remaining at the date of nomination, so enrolled as a student for the full duration of their fellowship (September 2026 to May 2027).
  • Commit to providing a short reflection piece to Campus Compact during their fellowship year.
  • Commit to being present and fully engage in offered fellowship activities.

Overview

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a nationally recognized, year-long opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students who are committed to making a difference in their communities.

As a Newman Fellow, you’ll join a powerful network of student changemakers from across the country, build real-world leadership skills, and gain the support to take on urgent issues like inequality, justice, and political polarization. This fellowship is about collaboration, courage, and creating change that lasts.

Who Should Apply

We’re looking for students who:

  • Work collaboratively with others on campus or in the community
  • Take action on issues of inequality and division
  • Shows strong potential for long-term civic and community leadership

Apply through this online application by April 1, 2026, by Midnight (12 P.M.).

What You’ll Gain

As a Newman Civic Fellow, you’ll receive access to a year of learning, connection, and support designed to help you turn your values into action:

  • 🧠 Skill-building & professional learning through regular virtual events focused on collaboration, leadership, and social change
  • ✈️ A national in-person Convening of Fellows, bringing together student leaders from across the country
  • 🤝 One-on-one leadership development with a local mentor of your choice
  • 🌍 A lifelong national network of engaged student leaders—during and beyond the fellowship year
  • 💡 Up to $1,500 in mini-grant funding to support a community-based social impact project
  • 🏆 Public national recognition for your leadership and civic engagement
  • 🎓 Access to special scholarship and career opportunities from Campus Compact and national partners
  • 📝 Opportunities to present or publish your work through Campus Compact platforms

Selected fellows will gain exclusive access to learning opportunities, networking events, and civic engagement training throughout the year.

🔗 Learn more about the Newman Civic Fellowship on the Campus Compact website.

Previous Fellows