By: University Communications Intern, Sicilia Reed  

S ophomore Tyler Hill has been named a 2024 Newman Civic Fellow for his dedication to leadership and community within Baldwin County and Georgia College & State University.

“Tyler offers an inspiring example of finding innovative solutions to seemingly intractable problems,” said Dr. Harold Mock, director of the university’s Leadership Programs. “He embodies the best of Georgia College’s commitment to leadership for the public good.”

Newman Civic Fellows are an inspiring group of community-committed students who are already making an impact in communities where they live, learn and serve.  

Hill’s passion for leadership was noticed after he founded a food donation organization called Agape. He founded Agape with Carlos Lopez Blackwell in February of last year, and together they provide relief for children under 18 who struggle with food insecurity in Baldwin County.

“Leadership can look like many different things,” Hill said. “It has taught me the best leaders lead by serving those they lead. I learned quickly when I tried to act on the ideas I had for my community that leading through service wasn’t enough. You also must be willing to collaborate.” 

Agape’s Thanksgiving food drive last year culminated in a day-long festival that not only provided food boxes to families in need, but brought in community resource organizations to connect with local families. As a result, 75 local families were provided with food boxes.  

At this year’s Jingle Jam Toy Drive, Hill proved instrumental in giving out toys to 150 families, ensuring that 250 local area children didn’t go without. He hopes to continue working with community leaders and his classmates to address food insecurity issues within the Milledgeville community.

Colleges and universities can submit one exceptional student candidate for the fellowship per year. Georgia College students are appointed through the university’s Leadership Program, then personally nominated by President Cathy Cox.

Through this honor, Hill will work with the university’s Leadership Programs to continue his work and fulfill Agape’s mission—bettering the university and local community.  

Newman Civic Fellows also have access to exclusive scholarship and post-graduate opportunities through the organization Campus Compact. These opportunities support the fellows in their personal, professional and civic growth.  

“I hope to continue to connect and collaborate with my community so that I can most effectively serve those around me,” Hill said.  

Learn more about the Engage Pillar in our Imagine 2030 Strategic Plan