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D&E student Gustafson chosen 2017 Newman Civic Fellow

Gustafson

Gustafson

ELKINS — Davis & Elkins College junior Sarah Gustafson is among 273 students chosen nationwide to receive the 2017 Newman Civic Fellows Award from Campus Compact. The Boston-based non-profit organization works to advance the public purposes of higher education.

A mathematics major with a minor in education, Gustafson is the daughter of Karl and Janice Gustafson of Bridgeport.

The award honors the late Dr. Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders and a tireless advocate for the civic engagement of higher education. In the spirit of Newman’s leadership, Campus Compact member presidents and chancellors were encouraged to nominate students who are proven leaders with both the motivation and ability to make substantial contributions toward public problem solving. Those chosen for the honor also will have taken action in pursuit of long-term positive social changes.

“Particularly interested in issues of food insecurity, Sarah has worked diligently in community efforts to provide short-term solutions to families in need,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. “Also concerned with long-term solutions to the pressing social needs of society, Sarah is committed to educating children and youth not only in academic content, but additionally in matters related to spirituality and virtue.”

Gustafson volunteers on and off campus, assisting her peers, area youth and the community. She is a Kid’s Club assistant and server for the Community Kitchen at Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church, where she also participated in the Mobile Food Pantry that helped distribute food to 170 local families. As a math tutor at The Naylor Learning Center on campus, she helps students on an individual basis and leads study groups. She has also led projects at local schools by organizing clean-up efforts and reading to students to provide literary enrichment.

In addition, Gustafson is a member of many D&E student organizations including Baptist Campus Ministries, Student Education Association, Kappa Delta Pi honorary education association, National Society for Leadership and Success and Chi Beta Phi honorary math and science association.

Gustafson credits her parents with instilling her interest in civic involvement through church and school events.

“Having these many opportunities, I learned the importance of actively offering myself to help those in need,” Gustafson said.

The 2017 Newman Civic Fellows will be the first cohort to benefit from a completely re-designed fellowship experience emphasizing personal, professional and civic growth

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