Kennesaw State University senior Deja Boney has been named a 2025 Newman Civic Fellow, an honor given to students who show leadership and dedication to community service.
Boney is studying information systems with a minor in information technology. She has taken part in several service initiatives at KSU and in the surrounding area. As a site leader for the Department of Student Volunteerism and Service (SVS) and as a KSU Service Fellow, she has organized volunteers for community cleanups, helped with poverty reduction through Circles Cobb, and mentored fellow students as part of Black Women Empowered at KSU.
“Being recognized on a national level means a lot because it shows that the work I’ve been doing to serve my campus and local communities is seen and valued beyond my immediate surroundings,” said Boney, who studies in the Michael J. Coles College of Business. “It’s an honor to be acknowledged alongside other leaders across the country, and it inspires me to continue growing, learning, and creating positive change on a bigger scale.”
Boney began her volunteer work at KSU after participating in an OwlsServe Day event. She is now serving her third term as a KSU Service Fellow and continues to support Circles Cobb by working as both a data operations specialist and resource coordinator. In these roles, she has helped set up relief programs, provided resources, and taught families about budgeting.
The SVS department at KSU manages volunteer programs such as OwlsServe Days and the annual KSU Day of Service. The department also runs the AmeriCorps Service Fellowship program, which places students like Boney in internships with nonprofit partners including Circles Cobb.
“Deja has proven her commitment to serving our community repeatedly throughout her time as a student at KSU,” said William Hargrove, director of Student Volunteerism and Service. “From leading the way as a member of the first cohort of the KSU Service Fellowship program, to serving in student organizations, and being a site leader, Deja has been a fervent community servant.”
Boney also holds the role of Community Service Director for Black Women Empowered at KSU. This organization offers mentorship, leadership training, and networking for Black women on campus.
The Newman Civic Fellowship is organized by Campus Compact, which brings together colleges and universities focused on civic engagement. The fellowship lasts one year and includes training sessions, networking opportunities, strategies for social change projects, access to grants for community work, scholarships, and guidance for post-graduate options.
“What excites me most about the Newman Civic Fellowship is the chance to meet and connect with other fellows who share the same passion for service and leadership as me,” Boney said.
As part of her fellowship experience, Boney will attend the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows from October 16–18 in Chicago. The event will include skill-building workshops and opportunities for fellows to connect with each other.
