From the president
Daniel Bechle, an exceptional student from Aurora, Colorado, is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Political Science at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). He has a 3.98 GPA and has been named to the Dean’s and MIAA Academic Honor Rolls in addition to being inducted into the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society.
A Wendell W. Wyatt Memorial Scholarship recipient, he is a member of the Track and Cross Country Team and is a VIP Student Ambassador. He belongs to the Criminal Justice and Pre-Law clubs and FHSU Capernaum – a group that supports those who are differently abled to grow in their faith.
A standout student committed to civic engagement, victim advocacy, and systemic legal reform, his extensive volunteer work, internship with the Ellis County Attorney’s Office, research contributions, and leadership in justice-focused initiatives make him a stellar candidate for this prestigious fellowship. His work on a NSF-funded community-driven victim services grant combined with his curricular and co-curricular experiences and service exemplifies his commitment to creating meaningful change.
Our campus is both proud of and grateful for Daniel’s impactful contributions to our campus community and beyond.
Personal Statement
Growing up in Colorado and later attending Fort Hays State University in rural Kansas, I’ve become increasingly aware of the deep-rooted challenges surrounding relationship-based violence in rural communities. In places where everyone knows each other, silence can feel safer than speaking up—and survivors often face isolation, limited access to support services, and cultural barriers to seeking justice. These realities have fueled my desire to become a criminal prosecutor focused on cases of domestic violence and abuse in rural areas.
My work as a student researcher on gender-based violence has strengthened my commitment to addressing these issues through both advocacy and legal reform. I've spent time studying how geography intersects with justice, and how overlooked populations—especially in small towns—often lack the protections and resources they deserve. Through leadership roles on campus and in the community, I’ve aimed to uplift voices that are too often unheard.
I believe that meaningful change begins with listening, showing up consistently, and building trust over time. As a Newman Civic Fellow, I’m excited to connect with others who are passionate about justice and social change, and to grow into a more effective leader for the communities I hope to serve—both in law school and beyond.