Cusinato Honored as Newman Civic Fellow
Arapahoe Community College (ACC) student Ripley Cusinato has been selected as a 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 students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. Through the program, Campus Compact provides Fellows with learning and networking opportunities to nurture their development as civic leaders. Programming emphasizes personal, professional, and civic growth.
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.
“We are so excited to welcome such an outstanding group of community-committed students to the fellowship,” said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. “These students are undaunted by the pressing challenges our communities face and bring such passion for making a difference. They truly are the leaders our society needs and are already catalysts for positive impact. We are privileged to be a part of their journey and to help empower them to create a more just and equitable future.”
Ripley, who was recognized on the 2024 Phi Theta Kappa All-Colorado Academic Team, plans to graduate from ACC with Associate of Arts degrees in Creative Writing and Psychology in May 2025. An active member of PTK, the National Society of Leadership and Success, the ACC Student Government Association, and ACC's All Inclusive Queer Alliance Club, Ripley is currently self-employed as the founder of Balanced Horses Healing Humans and is getting certified to become an Equine Gestalt Coach (helping humans heal through exploration alongside horses). A published author, Ripley also earned a Mountain Mover Award from ACC and was honored as the PTK Colorado / Wyoming Region's Distinguished Chapter Officer in 2024.