FHSU University Communications
Fort Hays State University senior Daniel Bechle, Aurora, Colo., was recently selected as a 2025-2026 Newman Civic Fellow through Campus Compact, a Boston non-profit organization devoted to the public purposes of higher education.
The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. Fellows are nominated by Campus Compact member presidents and chancellors, who are invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year.
During his time at FHSU, Bechle has been extensively involved and has served in multiple leadership positions, including president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and the Student Research Cluster; vice president of Model United Nations and Grace Evangelism. He has also competed as a student-athlete on the cross country and track team.
He has worked on an NSF-funded community-driven victim services grant, participated in an internship experience with the Ellis County Attorney’s Office, volunteered for service, and conducted research on justice reform.
Bechle’s research into gender-based violence has led him to commit to addressing these issues through advocacy and legal reform. He studies how geography intersects with justice, and how overlooked populations, particularly small towns, often lack needed resources.
“I am driven to seek justice for those silenced by domestic violence and sexual assault. My research has fueled a passion to champion survivors, and it inspires me to dedicate my legal career to prosecuting serious sex crimes and giving a voice to those who have been unheard,” he said.
Bechle, who is double-majoring in criminal justice and political science, said he is concerned about the deep-rooted challenges surrounding relationship-based violence in rural communities.
“As a Newman Civic Fellow, I’m excited to connect with others who are passionate about justice and social change, and to grow into a more effective leader for the communities I hope to serve, both in law school and beyond.”
Learn more about the fellowship at compact.org/newman-civic-fellowship. You can read more about each of the student leaders selected for this year’s cohort at compact.org/newman-civic-fellowship/fellows.