USCBe Informed: News & Happenings

Student Shermica Dunbar Selected as 2023-24 Newman Civic Fellow

Shermica Dunbar, a junior majoring in Human Services, is the University of South Carolina Beaufort’s newest Newman Civic Fellow. The award is from Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education. This group named 173 student leaders who will make up the organization's 2023-2024 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows.

The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes students who stand out for their commitment to creating positive change in communities locally and around the world. The fellowship is named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact's founders, who was a tireless advocate for civic engagement in higher education. In the spirit of Dr. Newman's leadership, fellows are nominated by Campus Compact member presidents and chancellors, who are invited to select one outstanding student from their campus each year.

“Growing up, I always had a strong devotion to help others. My passion started with taking care of my siblings while my mother worked two jobs to provide for us. We never went without but this was not the same for my neighbors. This set me on a path toward making changes in my community. While in high school I volunteered with the guidance counselor, learning what I could do to make a difference,” Shermica said.

Shermica’s goal is to improve the lives of children through her future career in Human Services.

USCB Chancellor Dr. Al Panu, who nominated Shermica for the Newman Fellowship, praised her initiative and resilience.

"Shermica possesses outstanding civic engagement experience. She is currently participating in an internship at Kindred Hearts of South Carolina, where her primary role is helping families access community resources. She also volunteers with a community youth group called the Mary B. Thomas Girls , where she has been a mentor for five years,” he wrote in the application.

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact will provide Shermica and the other winners with a year of learning and networking opportunities that emphasize personal, professional, and civic growth. Each year, fellows participate in numerous virtual training and networking opportunities to help provide them with the skills and connections they need to create large-scale positive change. The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Fellows, which offers intensive skill-building and networking over the course of two days. The fellowship also provides fellows with pathways to apply for exclusive scholarships and post-graduate opportunities.

"We are delighted to welcome your nominee into this year’s Newman Civic Fellows cohort," said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. "These opportunities support fellows in their personal, professional, and civic growth."

The Newman Civic Fellowship program is supported by the KPMG Foundation.

Learn more at https://compact.org/current-programs/newman-civic-fellowship