UW Student Honored for Public Service

May 17, 2011 — University of Wyoming sophomore mechanical engineering student Sam Rubino of Laramie was one of 137 students nationwide who received the Newman Civic Fellows Award from Campus Compact.

The Newman Civic Fellows Award honors inspiring college student leaders who demonstrate an investment in finding solutions for challenges facing communities. Rubino's skills, confidence, and insights to find solutions to student concerns on campus contributed to his selection.

UW President Tom Buchanan nominated Rubino for his political campaign involvement and strong commitment to public service.

"Sam understands that everyone, regardless of political affiliation, needs to be heard in a democracy, especially those who face disadvantages in the world," Buchanan wrote.

Buchanan said Rubino gained perspectives on how citizens can improve the lives of others.

Rubino helped represent students from under-represented populations while he was a member of the university's student senate. He helped create "Free Compliments Wednesday," in which students offer advice and compliments to students in high-traffic areas around campus.

Buchanan added, "Sam listens to student concerns and puts those concerns into action, finding real-world solutions to contemporary problems."

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