St. John Fisher University Student Honored as Newman Civic Fellow

St. John Fisher University student Isaac Turenne recognized for commitment to solving public problems.

Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education, has named the student civic leaders from 39 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico who will make up the 2026-2027 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows. St. John Fisher University student Isaac Turenne was named as a member of the cohort.

Students Isaac Turenne (L) and Brandon Davis (R) with President Rooney

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. The fellowship is named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders, who was a tireless advocate for civic engagement in higher education. In the spirit of Dr. Newman’s leadership, each fellow is nominated by their campus president or chancellor, who is invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year.

Turenne, a senior psychology major at Fisher, is a student leader on campus, active in a variety of clubs and organizations and in his role as a resident assistant.

He is compassionate about addressing capacity building for inclusive educational environments and advocacy for students with developmental disabilities. For the last two years, he has worked closely with Fisher’s postsecondary education program to advocate for the inclusion of students with developmental disabilities into the University community, working directly with program participants promoting intellectual and personal growth in education, career readiness, and community settings through strong peer relationships. He also serves as the marketing captain for the annual Teddi Dance for Love.

“I strive to make others feel welcomed and cared for, and these activities have made me realize that progress requires cooperation and collaboration. In the years to come, I wish to continuously find solutions to problems and ways in which I can help my community, work with others to provide opportunities to disadvantaged individuals, and contribute positively,” said Turenne. 

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides these students with learning and networking opportunities that help to nurture their development as civic leaders. Programming emphasizes personal, professional, and civic growth that can empower them to collaborate effectively across disciplines and create large-scale positive change.

The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows, which offers intensive in-person skill-building and networking over three days. The fellowship also provides fellows with pathways to apply for exclusive opportunities, including mini-grants to help fund community projects, scholarships, and post-graduate opportunities.

“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.”