Schneider named a 2013 Newman Civic Fellow

JACKSONVILLE, IL (03/25/2013)(readMedia)-- Illinois College senior Matthew Schneider of Waterloo, son of Jerome and Deborah Schneider, was one of 181 students in the nation recognized as a 2013 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact for demonstrating an investment in finding solutions for challenges facing communities throughout the country.

Schneider is very involved in the campus community participating in roles such as; resident assistant, student ambassador, Peer Health Educator, president of the Sociology Club, president of History of Tomorrow and Illinois College baseball. All of which demonstrate high levels of leadership but more importantly a passion to help.

"I feel the next step for me is to further develop these leadership skills," Schneider said. "I do feel that joining a network of other outstanding college students as a Newman Civic Fellow would prove useful in meeting my goals. It seems fitting that I will end my undergraduate career by joining this network, potentially linking me with individuals who can help me move from being a community leader to becoming a global leader through conversation, planning and joint action."

Nominated by their college and university presidents, Campus Compact says that these students are making the most of their college experiences to better understand the root causes of social issues and effective mechanisms for creating lasting change.

Newman Civic Fellow awards are made in memory of Frank Newman, a founder of Campus Compact, who dedicated his life to creating systemic change through education reform. At the core of Newman's leadership was a belief in the power of individuals to make a difference and in the power of connection with others. Newman had a tremendous impact on American education and its role in the development of citizens who want to make a difference. This class of Newman Civic Fellows embodies this spirit and dedication.

The Newman Civic Fellows Awards are made possible through the generous support of the KPMG Foundation. For a full list of the 2013 Newman Civic Fellows, please go to: www.compact.org.

Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success. More than fifty years ago, the unusual quality of the educational programs at Illinois College was recognized by the establishment of a Phi Beta Kappa chapter on the campus; this was the fifth of eleven chapters now authorized in Illinois, and it is one of only 262 such chapters in the nation. Illinois College is a charter member of and accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.