From the president
Hoang The Luong, a first-year Mathematics and Finance major at UMass Dartmouth, exemplifies the values of civic leadership and community engagement that define a Newman Civic Fellow. With a 4.0 GPA and a role as an International Admission Ambassador, Hoang brings both academic excellence and a deep commitment to social impact. In his native Vietnam, he led grassroots efforts to combat food insecurity and provide essential resources to underserved communities. His work has also focused on empowering youth through leadership development and fostering a culture of civic responsibility. Hoang’s thoughtful and proactive approach to addressing the root causes of inequality reflects his potential to develop innovative and collaborative strategies that uplift marginalized populations. Through the Newman Civic Fellowship, he seeks to expand his capacity as a changemaker and contribute meaningfully to building more just and equitable communities.
Personal Statement
As an international student balancing a 20-credit course load, I have remained committed to civic engagement both on and off campus. At my college, I serve as an International Admissions Ambassador, where I support prospective students and their families through the admissions process, often acting as a bridge across cultures. Back in Vietnam, I was a catechist in my local church, where I organized Christmas celebrations, summer camps, and led educational and spiritual activities for youth. I also assisted the parish priest in organizing charity programs, providing food, supplies, and scholarships to families in need. These experiences have shaped my belief that community engagement is about walking alongside others, addressing challenges with empathy and action. I aspire to work at the intersection of education and equity, empowering underserved communities through policy and outreach. The Newman Civic Fellowship will deepen my leadership skills and connect me with others who are equally passionate about making a difference. I am excited to learn from a network of changemakers and to continue growing as a civic leader dedicated to creating lasting, inclusive change.