Tae’Niajha Pullen ’25 (CLAS), an Africana studies major, has been named a 2024-2025 Newman Civic Fellow. 

The distinction was given by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education, to students from 38 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico who were recommended by their campus president or chancellor. 

The fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. It is named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders, who was a tireless advocate for civic engagement in higher education.  

Pullen has worked tirelessly to create a safe and inclusive community through her efforts to reach, support, and engage with underrepresented students and organizations. She has served as the chief diversity officer for the Undergraduate Student Government and was instrumental in creating UConn’s newest living and learning community, BSOUL (Black Sisters Optimizing Unity & Leadership), designed to give female students who identify as African American/Black academic and social/emotional support, access to research opportunities, and professional development.  

Pullen’s efforts as director of the Black Female Development Circle, Inc., and president of the Black UConn Collective have created spaces on campus where students are empowered to challenge the status quo and demand a more diverse, equitable, just, and inclusive world.  

“My passion for social justice is unrelenting,” wrote Pullen in her application. “Ever since I was little, I have known that I wanted to help people, no matter my profession.” 

The fellowship gives students learning and networking opportunities that nurture their development as civic leaders and emphasizes personal, professional, and civic growth that empowers them to create large-scale positive change. 

The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows, which offers intensive in-person skill-building and networking over three days. 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. 

“The success of the BSOUL community, which now boasts more than 60 members, is a testament to Tae’Niajha’s determination, focus, and commitment,” said UConn President Radenka Maric in her recommendation.  

The Newman Civic Fellowship is supported by The Allstate Foundation.