University of Richmond Student Honored as Newman Civic Fellow

Junior Anum Merchant Recognized for Commitment to Solving Public Problems
May 1, 2023

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — University of Richmond junior Anum Merchant, of Bengaluru, India, has been announced as a 2023 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact, a national coalition of more than 1,000 colleges and universities.

This marks the sixth consecutive year that a University of Richmond student has been selected for this fellowship. The yearlong program recognizes students who stand out for their commitment to creating positive change in communities locally and around the world. Newman Civic fellows participate in learning and networking opportunities that emphasize personal, professional, and civic growth. Merchant will join 154 student civic leaders from 38 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico to form the 2023–24 cohort.

“I am so honored to be Richmond’s next Newman Civic Fellow,” Merchant said. “I am excited for the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals and continue my civic engagement journey by learning and interacting with others.” 

Merchant, a Bonner Scholar, is double majoring in leadership studies and political science. During her time at UR, Merchant has worked as an immigration intern at the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy, an investigative intern for the Virginia Indigent Defense Commission, and a congressional relations staff assistant intern at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars. She is currently a legislative intern at Two Capitols Consulting in Richmond, Virginia. Merchant is also involved with community organizations, including Scholars Latino Initiative and Girls for a Change.

“The University of Richmond strives to prepare our students for lives of purpose, supporting them as they foster connections with each other, our city, and our world,” said University of Richmond President Kevin F. Hallock. “Anum has demonstrated her commitment to building relationships and creating positive change through policy and direct service. We are delighted that she will be UR’s 2023 Newman Civic Fellow.” 

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