Michael Hannigan, a Greenfield Community College student in the Farm and Food Systems program, has been selected as a 2025 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact. Campus Compact is a national coalition of colleges and universities that partners with higher education institutions to advance civic and community engagement.

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program that recognizes community-committed students who engage in collaborative action to create long-term social change, address issues of inequality and political polarization, and demonstrate motivation and potential for effective long-term civic engagement.

“Michael brings a wealth of life experience and a deep commitment to social justice to his work on campus and beyond,” said GCC President Dr. Michelle Schutt. “Since starting in fall 2023 through the MassReconnect program, he has become a campus and community leader who is passionate about combating food insecurity.”

At GCC, Hannigan leads the Permaculture Club and has organized student-led gleaning projects that rescue surplus produce from local farms. Those efforts have resulted in free on-campus farmers markets that provide fresh food to students in need. He has completed multiple internships with local organizations fighting food insecurity and has participated in statewide and national initiatives to expand food access.

Hannigan also combines hands-on service with advocacy. As an elected Student Trustee and Student Senate President, he has championed expanded access to free food, affordable textbooks, and improved student support services.

As a Newman Civic Fellow, Hannigan will have opportunities for learning and networking both virtually and in person. Programming is designed to strengthen students’ abilities to collaborate across disciplines and to apply their skills to create positive community change. Highlights of the fellowship include an intensive three-day Annual Convening, access to professional development, and opportunities to apply for mini-grants and post-graduate support.

Hannigan says, “I’m excited for the chance to connect with students across the country who share a passion for civic engagement. This fellowship will help shape and strengthen the work I’ve been doing here at GCC, and I’m grateful for all the ways GCC empowers students to grow as leaders. I especially want to thank President Schutt and Sara Allred for nominating me and for inspiring students to believe in their power to create change.”