Campus Compact Gives MWCC Student Samuel Nieves Newman Civic Fellow Honor
The following is the complete Press Release from Mount Wachusett Community College:
Mount Wachusett Community College Student Samuel Nieves Named 2026–2027 Newman Civic Fellow
GARDNER, MA – October 5, 2026 – Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) student and Board of Trustees Student Representative Samuel Nieves has been named a 2026–2027 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities dedicated to higher education civic and community engagement.
The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program recognizing students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities. Fellows are nominated by the presidents and chancellors of Campus Compact member institutions, with each institution invited to nominate one student who exemplifies a commitment to community engagement and civic leadership.
Nieves, a Fitchburg resident pursuing a degree in business administration at MWCC, currently serves as the student representative to the college’s Board of Trustees. He previously served as president of MWCC’s Student Government Association, advocating for his fellow students and encouraging greater student participation in campus and community life.
“Sam has embraced every opportunity to become involved at Mount Wachusett Community College, but more importantly, he has used those opportunities to advocate for others and strengthen his community,” said MWCC President James Vander Hooven. “His leadership reflects the spirit of civic engagement that is so important to the mission of our college. We are incredibly proud to have Sam represent MWCC as a Newman Civic Fellow.”
Nieves joins Newman Civic Fellows from colleges and universities across 39 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico in the 2026–2027 cohort. He continues a tradition of MWCC students being recognized through the Newman Civic Fellowship, recent MWCC fellows are Wren Stoddard in 2025–2026, Sara Leopaldi in 2024–2025, and Hanna Shailer in 2023–2024.
Beyond campus, Nieves has focused on creating connections and opportunities throughout the greater Fitchburg and Central Massachusetts community. Through his community involvement, he has helped distribute more than 700 suits to men in need, providing professional clothing to help individuals prepare for interviews, employment, and other opportunities. He is also the founder of the Social Light Business Club, now The Business Club, which brings together local business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders to build relationships and strengthen the region’s professional community.
“I’m beyond grateful for this journey,” Nieves said in announcing his selection. “I can’t wait to continue serving our community, and I’m so thankful for everyone who’s been part of these incredible chapters.”
As a Newman Civic Fellow, Nieves will have access to learning and networking opportunities designed to support his personal, professional, and civic development. The fellowship includes virtual programming as well as the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows; a three-day experience focused on skill-building and networking. Fellows also have opportunities to apply for mini-grants, scholarships, and post-graduate opportunities.
For more information about the Newman Civic Fellowship and the 2026–2027 cohort, visit compact.org.