Campus Compact has named Kimbeley Peterson (C'27), a junior at Principia College, to the 2025-2026 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows. The national coalition selected student civic leaders from 38 states, as well as Washington, DC, and Mexico, for this prestigious yearlong program. 

The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes students who demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. Each fellow is nominated by their campus president or chancellor to honor one exemplary community-committed student annually. 

Peterson, double majoring in Biology and Global Studies, exemplifies dynamic student leadership through multiple roles: president of the African Students Association, house president of Howard House, former International Student Representative on Student Senate, co-captain of the Women's Tennis Team, and manager at the Piasa Pub.  

Her civic engagement emphasizes community-based solutions and cross-cultural collaboration, focusing on root causes of social issues through inclusive dialogue and research reflecting local voices. 

"Kimbeley Peterson is a dynamic and engaging leader who inspires a sense of community, fairness, and shared responsibility," said Dr. Meggan Madden (C'93), Interim President of Principia College. "Her collaborative spirit and systems-thinking mindset position her to develop innovative strategies to address public issues." 

Peterson's philosophy aligns with the fellowship's mission: "I believe in taking initiative to address issues within our control—especially those rooted in social and cultural hierarchies. My work emphasizes listening first, recognizing that sustainable change must be shaped by many voices." 

The fellowship provides learning and networking opportunities through virtual events, an annual three-day convening, mini grants up to $1,500 for community projects, scholarships, and post-graduate opportunities. 

"These students exemplify the power and possibility of civic and community engagement on campus," said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. "They represent a bright future for public problem solving." Read more about the Newman Civic Fellowship and Kimbeley's award.