Oriana Cappella ’26 Selected for Newman Civic Fellowship

Oriana “Ori” Cappella ’26 has been named to the 2025-2026 Newman Civic Fellow cohort.  Alongside students from across the United States, the Natick, Massachusetts, resident will participate in a year-long program sponsored by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities. Through skill development and professional learning initiatives, Cappella will hone her ability to effect change. 

“Ori is an eager learner, a dedicated leader and a vibrant changemaker. She demonstrates a steadfast commitment to social justice work, problem-solving and civic engagement,” wrote President John Denning, C.S.C., in a statement supporting Cappella’s nomination as a Newman Civic Fellow. 

Throughout her Stonehill career, Cappella has been actively involved on campus. She designed curricula for service experiences and helped educate community members on social justice matters through her involvement with the L.I.G.H.T. Community Engagement Program, the H.O.P.E. Service Immersion Program, and the Advocates for a Brighter Stonehill Leadership Program. 

Additionally, Cappella has hosted panels and other programming focused on neurodiversity through her work with the dialogue group called Sharing Triumphs Achievements & Resilience. Outside of Stonehill, she has interned with Maggie’s Place, a nonprofit in Arizona that provides services for people who do not have housing. 

Reflecting on the honor of being named a Newman Civic Fellow, Cappella said she is grateful for the support of her loved ones, supervisors and mentors. She also noted how she intends to use her fellowship experience to promote justice. 

“My deepest hope is that the knowledge and skills I gain through this fellowship will strengthen Stonehill’s community and create more equitable, inclusive and compassionate spaces for all,” she explained. “I want the work I do to leave a lasting mark—a mark that continues to benefit students, staff, faculty and other community members for years to come.”