MACON – Mercer University junior Harris Wallace has been named a 2025–26 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education.
The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program that recognizes and supports student public problem solvers at Campus Compact member institutions. Fellows are nominated by their president or chancellor based on their potential for public leadership and their work with communities.
Wallace, a philosophy, politics and economics major from Lilburn, founded the initiative Macon Civics Matter, which is focused on increasing the quality of civics education in Bibb County high schools by connecting local judges and teachers. The goal is to get the next generation of leaders to think critically about issues facing the Macon-Bibb community.
“The mentorship, support and guidance provided by the Newman Civic Fellowship will be invaluable in achieving the goals of the (Macon Civics Matter) initiative,” said Wallace.
At Mercer, Wallace is a member of the University Honors Program, a Stamps Scholar, the national programming intern for Campus Vote Project and a former democracy fellow with Mercer Votes. He is also president of the Mercer Young Democrats, associate chief justice of the Office of Student Conduct Resolution, and a student assistant with the Center for Career and Professional Development.
“I am incredibly proud of Harris and the vision he brings to strengthening civic learning in Macon-Bibb,” said Lauren A. Shinholster, associate director of engaged learning. “Having worked with Harris through our Visionary Student Panel program, I am excited to continue supporting his growth as a Newman Civic Fellow and to witness the impact of his work.”
After graduating, Wallace plans to pursue his master’s in public administration and pursue a career of public service in Georgia.
About The Newman Civic Fellowship
The Newman Civic Fellowship provides 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.
