Imelda Pozos Honored as Newman Civic Fellow

Written by Ella Shelburn

Imelda Pozos ’25 ’27 (History, Political Science, MA in Applied Sociology) was named a 2025-2026 Newman Civic Fellow with Campus Compact. 

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program that recognizes student leaders and problem-solvers who encourage social change. The fellowship is named after Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders, who advocated for civic engagement in higher education. All fellows are nominated by their president or chancellor based on their potential for public leadership and community involvement. 

Pozos is a first-generation college student and the daughter of Mexican immigrants. Because of these experiences, she became involved in immigration advocacy work and serving underrepresented communities. 

“Crossing borders was a part of life, and I witnessed the sacrifices of family members who left home and, at times, could not return, even to bury loved ones,” said Pozos. “These experiences shaped me and my drive to move mountains for my family and immigrant communities.”

While pursuing her master’s, Pozos plans to continue the research related to her capstone project, “Unidos No Más? The Trump Era and the Decline of Linked Fate Among Latinos.”

“My capstone project explores why more Latinos supported Donald Trump in 2024, connecting it to a rise in individualistic voting priorities,” said Pozos. “I plan to expand this research and partner with local nonprofits serving immigrant and Latino populations.”

Pozos believes that the Newman Civic Fellowship will help her on the path to eventually become a professor at a Hispanic-Serving Institution while continuing research that supports marginalized communities. 

“The Newman Civic Fellowship offers me the opportunity to grow as a leader, connect with others who share my values, and prepare for a career of service, advocacy, and social change,” said Pozos. 

Dr. Colleen Wynn, chair of the Department of Sociology, is also excited about the opportunities this fellowship will give Pozos. 

“This is an honor for Imelda and UIndy,” said Wynn. “She will be able to use her knowledge and skills from her UIndy programs to make a positive impact and will have the chance to share her work and experience with other Newman Civic Fellows from across the country.”