Newman Civic Fellow Named for 2026–2027 Academic Year

Katelyn Mooney ’28, an elementary education major from Westport, Massachusetts, has been selected for the 2026–2027 Newman Civic Fellowship, sponsored by Campus Compact. She will participate in a year-long program alongside student leaders from other institutions. Together, they will develop strategies for social change and support each other in creating a network of engaged problem solvers. 

“Kate leads with integrity and a genuine concern for the common good. She embodies Stonehill’s mission and values through her commitment to dialogue, justice, and accompaniment, and she shows great promise as a leader dedicated to strengthening communities and fostering a more compassionate and engaged society,” wrote President John Denning, C.S.C., in a letter supporting Mooney’s nomination to the program. 

At Stonehill, Mooney serves as president of the BRIDGE Club, a student organization dedicated to fostering respectful conversation across differences. In a personal statement submitted with her application to the fellowship, she explored the impact of her involvement with the group.  

“Through this club, we strive to look into the ‘why’ when having conversations about challenging topics,” Mooney explained. “The experience of being honored to lead this club has allowed me to continue to communicate more effectively and promote understanding. My overall goal throughout every experience I have is to be able to more clearly view our world through every perspective and from all backgrounds.” 

Mooney also serves as the recruitment chair for Stonehill’s Common Goods Pantry, which offers food and toiletries to all Stonehill students, with no personal information collected from visitors. She noted that she will draw upon this experience as she seeks to expand her social justice advocacy through her work with Campus Compact.  

As part of this year’s Newman Civic Fellowship cohort, Mooney will join young civic leaders from campuses across 39 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico.  

“This group of exceptional students from campuses across the country is such a welcomed addition to the Newman Civic Fellowship,” said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. “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.”