Elodie Chery ’28 honored as Newman Civic Fellow

Salve Regina University political science major Elodie Chery ’28 has been named to the 2025-26 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education. She will join student civic leaders from 38 states, Washington, D.C. and Mexico.

“Elodie consistently demonstrates an extraordinary level of self-motivation and a deep sense of dedication to Salve’s mission. She has shown maturity, initiative and a genuine commitment to advancing the common good, often going above and beyond expectations,” shared Kelly Powers, director of community engagement and service at the University.

The fellowship is named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact's founders, who was a tireless advocate for civic engagement in higher education. In the spirit of Newman's leadership, each fellow is nominated by their campus president or chancellor, who is invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year.  

Chery shared her inspiration with us, and her path to civic engagement.

Q: Could you tell us about your journey to Salve and what drew you to study political science?  

A: In my college search, I was looking for a university that offered opportunities I could take advantage of, particularly academically. From my tour of Salve and previous research, I knew that the University does a great job of connecting students to real-world applications, helping us gain experience and build networks. That was one aspect that really drew me to the Department of Political Science and International Relations. I’ve also always been interested in law and how our government affects and shapes society, so studying political science felt like a natural choice and a strong segue into my potential law career. I believe that political science provides the best foundation for my higher education journey.  

Q: How have your studies at Salve shaped the way you view civic engagement and leadership?  

A: My professors have played a pivotal role in shaping how I view our government and, more importantly, civic engagement. Discussing founding documents such as the Federalist Papers and the Constitution demonstrates that we have a responsibility as constituents to protect our rights and remain informed about them.  Political science has not only pushed me to be more engaged with our government but has also inspired those around me to do the same.  

Q: What kinds of community service, activism or civic engagement have you been involved in at Salve or beyond?  

A: For the past few years, I’ve been drawn to the issue of food insecurity and the crippling role it plays in marginalized communities. Almost all of my service and volunteering has been dedicated to uplifting communities through food waste recovery and food access. Currently, I serve as a service advocate on campus, where I dedicate 100 hours of service to a community partner of my choice. Over the last three semesters, I have been working with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center (MLK Center). It has been an amazing experience to engage with Newport and learn more about the backbones that keep this city going.  

I am also co-chair of Catherine’s Cupboard, our on-campus food pantry accessible to students, faculty and staff. I have enjoyed identifying needs and working to find solutions within the Salve community. It is important to remember that, even though we live in the great city of Newport, there are still individuals and families who are struggling and in need of mercy. I am also an undergrad researcher for Dr. Mary Anderson where we unpack the role of first ladies as policy actors in the executive branch. This project has opened my eyes to the importance of civic engagement and asking questions to learn more.

Q: How do you see your role as a student leader in creating positive change in your community?

A: I see my role as a display of the endless possibilities that come from putting yourself out there with genuine intentions. On campus, I strive to put others before myself and live a life centered on mercy and understanding. Connecting my peers with resources such as Catherine’s Cupboard and service opportunities through Circle K fosters collaboration and creates a space for meaningful change. I aspire to continue carrying kindness and mercy beyond graduation to uplift the world around me and foster change for generations to come. The Newman Civic Fellowship emphasizes collaboration, leadership development and networking with civic-minded peers.  

Q: What are you most looking forward to about being part of this national cohort?  

A: I am thrilled to be coming together with individuals that share my passion for change. Throughout this fellowship, I will be committed to not only advancing civic engagement but learning from peers and exchanging ideas. This cohort is filled with individuals from diverse backgrounds, so I will be exposed to so many perspectives and learn new techniques for problem-solving and collaboration. I am especially excited to start mapping an action plan to push Salve forward.  

Q: What does it mean to be civically engaged today - especially as a college student?  

A: To be civically engaged in today’s standards means having the willingness to be open-minded. This entails acknowledging that there is a problem and having the want and drive to make an attempt to find a solution. The smallest act of having the inclination to want to know more and having the difficult conversations is so important. 

For more information on the fellowship and other service opportunities, please contact Powers at kellyj.powers@salve.edu.