Developing Future Civic Leaders
Universities play a crucial role in preparing young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage in government, participate in elections, and take on the responsibilities of active citizenship.
The Maverick Civic Leadership Fellows Learning Community is designed to identify, recruit, and develop top undergraduate students who aspire to become future leaders at the city, state, national, and international levels. Through experiential learning in public service, civic engagement, and global leadership, this program provides students with unparalleled opportunities to grow their core civic competency skills.
The Maverick Civic Leadership Fellows Learning Community is a high-impact program that equips students with leadership skills for meaningful civic engagement. Students apply in the spring semester for the Fall 2025 to Spring 2026 academic year.
- Extra-Curricular: While participation is required, there are no required classes. This program will not interfere with students completing their academic requirements on time.
- No Cost: There are no tuition or fees. All program costs are grant-funded.
- Inclusive & Accessible: Open to students of all academic majors.
- Recognition: Upon completion, students receive an official transcript designation as a Maverick Civic Leadership Fellow.
- Mentoring: All participants will be assigned a mentor from the local community with public service experience and interests similar to their own and will meet with their mentor several times during the year.
Maverick Civic Leadership Fellows get in the field and meet with civic leaders from across local and state governing agencies. Through panels, presentations, and tours, they take experiential learning to the next level.
2025-2026 Agenda:
Fall 2025: The City of Omaha
Spring 2026: The State of Nebraska
Students will be introduced to the Civic Leadership Scholar opportunity during their freshman year and will be invited to apply to the program in the spring semester.
Students interested in becoming Maverick Civic Leadership Fellows must apply now for the 2025-26 academic year. The selection process is competitive and seeks individuals who demonstrate a strong interest in public service, civic engagement, and leadership.
- Priority Application Deadline: May 1, 2025
- Selection Announcement: Late spring semester 2025
To apply please e-mail your resume and a cover letter expressing your interest in the program to Dr. Randy Adkins at radkins@unomaha.edu.
Join the Maverick Civic Leadership Fellows and take the first step toward becoming a leader in your community and beyond!
Why Join the Maverick Civic Leadership Fellows?
✔ Exclusive Leadership Development: Gain direct exposure to civic leaders and government officials at various levels.
✔ Experiential Learning: Participate in hands-on projects and civic engagement opportunities.
✔ Career & Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful connections with professionals in government, nonprofit organizations, and global leadership initiatives.
✔ No Additional Cost: Designed to be accessible for all students, ensuring financial barriers do not limit participation.
✔ Recognition & Credentialing: Stand out in job applications and graduate school admissions with a distinguished Civic Leadership Scholar designation.