BRANCHBURG TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — Raritan Valley Community College graduate Manuela Bulgaro of Manville has been named a Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact, joining a national cohort of students from 39 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico. Campus Compact lists Bulgaro among its 2026-27 Newman Civic Fellows.
Bulgaro, a social sciences major who graduated from RVCC in May, was selected for the yearlong fellowship, which recognizes students for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in their communities.
“We are very honored that RVCC graduate Manuela Bulgaro has been recognized nationally and selected as a Newman Civic Fellow,” said RVCC President Dr. Michael J. McDonough. “Manuela is a first-generation student whose leadership is grounded in resilience, service learning, and civic engagement. A Kesselman Democracy Fellow and Honors student, she exemplifies ethical, collaborative, and innovative leadership committed to meaningful community impact.”
Bulgaro immigrated from Brazil to the United States in 2013 after an eight-year separation from her parents and the loss of her father, a criminal defense attorney whose commitment to integrity and public service helped shape her values.
While at RVCC, Bulgaro served as president of the Criminal Justice Club, Student Government senator, vice president of finance and logistics for the Debate Team, a Phi Theta Kappa scholar and Service Learning Student Voter Engagement Ambassador.
In those roles, she organized civic education initiatives, voter registration drives and community-based projects. Her work earned her the President’s Volunteer Service Award and the 2026 Outstanding Women of Somerset County award in government and social service.
Bulgaro also co-designed the Annis Young Innovators Initiative, a STEM program for underserved youth, and founded “The Republic We Keep,” a podcast promoting democratic literacy.
Now a student at Rutgers University, Bulgaro plans to attend law school and pursue a career in law. Her long-term goal is to promote democratic integrity and public trust in institutions through law and policy, with a particular interest in advocating for people in the criminal justice system and marginalized communities.
“This group of exceptional students from campuses across the country is such a welcomed addition to the Newman Civic Fellowship,” said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. “Now more than ever, it is an honor to recognize student leaders who are applying themselves as changemakers and creating positive impact in their communities. This is just the start of their lifelong journeys as Newman Civic Fellows, and I couldn’t be more excited to watch them continue to grow and pursue their passions.”
Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides students with learning and networking opportunities focused on personal, professional and civic growth. The program includes an annual three-day convening for skill-building and networking, as well as opportunities to apply for mini-grants, scholarships and postgraduate opportunities.
RVCC’s Pray Family Center for Service Learning and Civic Engagement is also providing a stipend to support Bulgaro’s participation in the fellowship.
