From the president
Rylan Brown is a passionate student leader at Bowling Green State University whose civic engagement work is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to systemic change. A scholar in the Sidney A. Ribeau President’s Leadership Academy, Rylan has engaged in sustained service and leadership development, including coordinating winter gear drives for those in need and raising over $2,000 through the United Nations Millennium Fellowship to support families in Detroit. He has also served as a Leadership Forum intern, resident mentor, and service chair for Alpha Tau Omega, consistently fostering inclusive spaces for growth and community engagement.
As president of Omicron Delta Kappa, a national leadership honor society, and an organizer of two alternative break trips, Rylan has empowered peers to take direct action through volunteerism. His more than 150 service hours this year alone reflect his deep commitment to serving others. Rylan’s leadership is not just about service—it’s about building structures that elevate others and address long-standing social challenges. His impact extends beyond campus through his work with DECA, where he supports emerging student leaders across the state. Rylan’s thoughtful, action-oriented approach exemplifies the spirit of the Newman Civic Fellowship and promises a future of continued public problem-solving and collaboration.
Personal Statement
During my time at Bowling Green State University, I have dedicated myself to servant leadership through over 200 hours of community service and multiple leadership roles. From serving as a Millennium Fellow in partnership with the United Nations to planning a Spring Break service trip to Shenandoah National Park, I have worked to create public good through collaborative, hands-on action. As Service Chair for Alpha Tau Omega, I lead efforts to organize events supporting causes like Letters of Love and sustainability initiatives. I’ve also supported DECA locally and nationally, mentoring students and judging leadership events.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned that the root causes of social issues—such as poverty, access to education, and environmental degradation—require sustained, collective action and compassion. Service is not about quick fixes, it’s about empowering others and building community resilience. My leadership approach centers around empathy, education, and mobilizing peers to make meaningful, long-term impacts. Whether mentoring incoming students as a Resident Mentor for the President’s Leadership Academy or fundraising for children in need, I strive to foster inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I believe small acts, when done together, can transform communities—and I aim to continue that work well beyond college.