From the president
Angela Medina completed her first year at Kingsborough Community College (KCC). During her time with us, she has demonstrated keen observational, analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. She balances many family, work, and educational responsibilities while attending KCC, putting in much effort into all that she takes on. Angela is a leader in the classroom, often participating with intention in discussions, as well as across the campus community. This past school year, she served as President of the Education Club, organizing various events on campus and at local elementary schools, building programming that engages students and community members deeply and critically in her field of study. Angela is a leader that truly takes time to hear from members of the community and builds upon what she learns, acting in relevant and sustaining ways. I nominate Angela Medina for the Newman Civic Fellowship with great enthusiasm, recognizing the alignment between the values and goals of the fellowship and her own. I believe that this is an excellent opportunity for Angela to become a part of a community that will support her as a first-generation college student. I am certain that she will support others in her cohort and add to their experience with her many strengths.
Personal Statement
This fellowship represents an opportunity I once thought was out of reach. Growing up in a diverse, low-income community in New York City, I often felt the weight of being misunderstood both at home and at school. Navigating the inequalities of the public school system, especially as someone constantly balancing different expectations, gave me a deep understanding of how structural barriers affect students like me. To be nominated as a Newman Civic Fellow is an honor that carries deep meaning. It allows me to give back to a community who once supported me, this community made up of hard-working individuals many of whom are Hispanic, low-income, or experiencing homelessness. These are the people who rise every day at dawn to provide for their families, despite facing constant obstacles. I believe that bringing awareness to the challenges faced by underserved communities can shift the public narrative. These communities are not defined by their struggles, but by their strength, resilience, and humanity. Through this fellowship, I hope to contribute my voice and work alongside others to create real, lasting change.