Lexi Gause, a first-generation college student from Cedar Rapids, has been chosen for a year-long program that supports students who have been identified as civic leaders.
Gause, a social work major at the University of Northern Iowa, was chosen for a Newman Civic Fellowship. She serves as president of the Black Student Union, vice president of membership and engagement for Panther Ambassadors and is part of the Thrive Mentoring program.
“Ever since I was in grade school, I always yearned for the ability to be a leader, an impactor,” Gause wrote in her personal statement. “As I started to get older, I grew into the mindset of a social activist. I found myself being present in my community.”
She said she got involved in activism when she was in high school and brought the same energy to college as soon as she got on campus.
Gause said her ultimate goal is to be a medical social worker and help make health care more equitable for people of color.
“This will open the door for me to get a better understanding of the health environment, to pave the way for implementing programs, initiatives and trainings for providers to understand how to better care for people of color,” she wrote.
As part of the fellowship, Campus Compact—a coalition of colleges and universities—will connect Gause and other students to networking, learning and training opportunities to increase their civic and professional growth.
The fellowship also gives students scholarships and post-graduate opportunities.
“Lexi is a true leader and takes pride in everything she does,” said Mark Nook, President of UNI. “It is evident by her grades, volunteer work, and involvement at UNI. She knows hard work and is never afraid to roll her sleeves up and get involved.”
Nikoel Hytrek
4/20/23
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