Campus Happenings

Recently, a group of SNHU students on The Chandler Center’s Civic Engagement Committee were recognized on the national stage for their commitment to civic engagement, social justice and strengthening democratic participation. The group was awarded the prestigious John Lewis Youth Leadership Award, an honor created by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) to recognize young leaders who embody the values and legacy of Congressman John Lewis.

Nominated by New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan, the committee was formally recognized during a ceremony at the New Hampshire State House. Recipients from across the country were later honored at a national gathering of secretaries of state in Washington, D.C., underscoring the award’s significance and the impact of the students’ work beyond New Hampshire.

The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award recognizes individuals or groups who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a passion for social justice and a commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities. For The Chandler Center’s Civic Engagement Committee, the award reflects a year of ongoing, student-led efforts to expand civic participation on campus and in the Manchester community.

During the 2024 U.S. presidential election cycle, these students played a central role in educating and mobilizing their peers. Through voter education presentations and campus events, they helped 687 classmates pledge to vote — and provided transportation to the polls for 91 of them. Their efforts focused on breaking down barriers to participation and ensuring students had clear, accessible information about how and why to engage in the democratic process.

Beyond election-related work, the committee strengthened civic engagement through innovative, collaborative programming. Students facilitated a cross-generational dialogue with residents at a local assisted living facility, Riverwoods Manchester, creating space for meaningful conversations about civic responsibility and lived experience. They also partnered with Penmen Athletics to engage each team in civic-focused activities, and hosted the Secretary of State on campus for a “Mochas and Midterms” event. Now, they’re continuing to build momentum through upcoming programs like “Pizza and Policy” in collaboration with local nonprofit Stay, Work, Play.

Katie Acciardo, program manager at the Chandler Center, shared that she feels the students’ impact comes from their enthusiasm and peer-to-peer leadership.

“They’re passionate and excited to learn and then motivate their peers,” she said. “It is the magic that propels their work on campus.”

By honoring The Chandler Center’s Civic Engagement Committee, the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award recognizes not only measurable outcomes, but also the spirit of service, courage and collective action that defined Congressman John Lewis’s life and legacy. For the SNHU community, the award is a powerful reminder of how today’s students are leading with purpose, strengthening democracy, fostering belonging and making a difference in their communities.

If learning about social issues and serving your community are ways you’re looking to get involved in college, SNHU is the place for you — and the Chandler Center’s Civic Engagement Committee isn’t your only option. You could take a service learning class, make blankets for the unhoused community in Manchester or go on an alternative spring break service trip.

When you choose SNHU, you’re not just choosing a college. You’re choosing connection and community. Ready to join us?