FHSU University Marketing and Strategic Communications
Isaac Hargett, a history and English student at Fort Hays State University, has been named a member of the 2026-2027 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education. Campus Compact recognizes outstanding student leaders from across the United States, Washington, D.C., and Mexico for their commitment to addressing public issues and creating positive change in their communities.
The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that honors students who demonstrate leadership potential and a dedication to solving public problems. Named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact's founders, the fellowship recognizes students nominated by their institution's president or chancellor as exemplary community-engaged leaders.
Originally from Manhattan, Kansas, Hargett had his choice of colleges. “I initially chose to visit FHSU because of the affordability,” Hargett said. “When I met with representatives from the Honors College and the history department, it was a great experience, and I knew this was the school for me.”
At FHSU, Hargett has distinguished himself as a passionate advocate for civic engagement and constructive dialogue. As Student Coordinator for the American Democracy Project, he works to create opportunities for students to engage in respectful conversations across political differences while learning how to actively participate in democratic processes. He recently gained national recognition for leading a peaceful dialogue program during a period of heightened campus tension and has demonstrated leadership through his involvement as a fellow with Loud Light, participation in Model United Nations, and service as president of the FHSU Young Democrats.
Hargett's commitment to public service is rooted in his belief that addressing society's challenges requires moving beyond division and encouraging greater civic participation. Through his work, he strives to foster meaningful dialogue among students from across the political spectrum and promote engagement in community and governmental affairs.
"Today's students want opportunities for productive conversations, not more division,” Hargett said. “Through the Newman Civic Fellowship, I hope to help foster respectful dialogue, strengthen civic participation, and encourage collaboration both on campus and beyond."
Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides students with learning and networking opportunities designed to support their growth as civic leaders.
Programming emphasizes personal, professional, and civic development, equipping fellows with the tools needed to collaborate across disciplines and create lasting positive change. The fellowship includes the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows, a three-day event focused on skill-building and networking, as well as opportunities to apply for mini-grants, scholarships, and post-graduate experiences.
"Isaac is dedicated to community involvement and believes that solving social problems starts with moving past division and getting people re-engaged with one another," said Dr. Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University. "As the Student Coordinator for the American Democracy Project, he works to make the campus a place where students can have open, thoughtful conversations and learn how to be engaged, informed citizens. Isaac is a natural bridge-builder who recently gained national recognition for leading a peaceful dialogue program that brought students together around important issues."
"This group of exceptional students from campuses across the country is such a welcomed addition to the Newman Civic Fellowship," said Bobbie Laur, president of Campus Compact. "Now more than ever, it is an honor to recognize student leaders who are applying themselves as changemakers and creating positive impact in their communities. This is just the start of their lifelong journeys as Newman Civic Fellows, and I couldn't be more excited to watch them continue to grow and pursue their passions."
About Campus Compact
Campus Compact is a national coalition of colleges and universities that supports, engages, and challenges higher education to realize its public purpose. Founded in 1985, Campus Compact is the nation's largest and oldest national association dedicated solely to advancing the civic and community engagement mission of higher education. Its members include thousands of presidents, faculty, researchers, students, and civic engagement professionals working to strengthen communities and democracy through higher education.