Texas State public administration undergraduate named 2019 Newman Civic Fellow

Belinda Atta, a junior public administration major at Texas State University, has been awarded the 2019 Newman Civic Fellowship from the Boston-based non-profit organization Campus Compact.

Campus Compact’s Newman Civic Fellowship, named after Campus Compact co-founder Frank Newman, is a one-year program that emphasizes personal, professional and civic growth for students who have demonstrated leadership and an investment in solving public issues.

“I have learned that for social issues to be addressed and solved, we must educate those who lack knowledge about specific communities of people,” said Atta, a first-generation college student. “We should empower the powerless to enable them to advocate for themselves.“

In partnership with the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, the organization holds an annual conference for Newman Civic Fellows. The fellowship also provides students with scholarship and post-graduate opportunities.

“We are proud to recognize each of these extraordinary student leaders and thrilled to have the opportunity to engage with them,” said Campus Compact President Andrew Seligsohn.

As a resident assistant last fall, Atta organized an event that encouraged students living in residence halls to implement change within their community.

“As a leader, I think it is important that whomever I oversee is able to have their voice heard,” Atta said. “It makes for a more impactful service experience, and there are a hundred perfectly good ways to serve others.”

Atta is co-chair of programs for Bobcat Build, the largest student service project at Texas State. Atta also volunteers at the Hays County Food Bank, Pflugerville Public Library and Adventist Community Service.