EAST LANSING, MI — Ella McKanna, a junior majoring in social relations and policy and psychology, has been named a 2024-25 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact, a national nonprofit made up of civic and community engagement experts at colleges and universities.

As a Newman Civic Fellow, McKanna will participate in a yearlong program that provides students with opportunities for learning, networking, and collaborating to effectively create positive change in their community. A core component of the fellowship focuses on building a national network of engaged student leaders who can support one another in advancing partnerships between campuses and community.

“Ella’s desire to bring communities together coupled with her strong leadership capabilities will undoubtedly ensure her success throughout the fellowship,” said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. “I look forward to seeing how she will translate her experience as a fellow into positive impacts for Michigan State and our community.”

Fellows are nominated by their university president or chancellor based on their potential for public leadership and work with communities.

"Ella's time as an MSU Community Engaged Scholar, Campus Vote Project Fellow, and her role on the Michigan Secretary of State's Collegiate Task Force have prepared her for this important fellowship,” said Renee Brown, executive director of MSU’s Center for Community Engaged Learning. “Her involvement in the local community underscores her commitment to civic engagement and public scholarship. We anticipate her invaluable contributions to this program and expect she will gain substantial benefits from the experiences it offers.”

McKanna is one of 141 scholars selected across 38 states, Washington D.C., and Mexico. Throughout the fellowship year, students will have opportunities to develop strategies for social change, create a network of connected and engaged student leaders, and enhance skill development and professional learning.

“I’m excited to work with other fellows across the nation to help progress civic engagement and social change,” McKanna said. “While this fellowship gives me the unique chance to connect with people on a national level, I'm also looking forward to developing stronger connections right here in East Lansing."

After graduation, McKanna plans to attend law school to progress her connections to both legal and non-profit fields.

Hear from McKanna by visiting Campus Compact’s website.

Contact: Emily Springer, Communication Manager, Communication and Information Technology, University Outreach and Engagement, sprin116@msu.edu