Welcome to NewComm, where we transform classroom education into real world legacy.
NewComm reimagines public education for high school students by directly connecting academic coursework to hands-on community projects that advance local economic wellness. In our student-centered “third spaces”—local design studios—student leaders (Fellows) collaborate with peers (Members) to apply math, English, and science skills to real-world problem-solving, guided by NewComm’s four-step, asset-based framework. Together, they tackle pressing community challenges, from designing innovative local business initiatives to organizing resource-sharing events. Through this process, students deepen their academic engagement while building leadership, professional skills, and self-confidence that prepare them for college and beyond. Ultimately, NewComm nurtures a generation of change-makers who see education not just as classroom content, but as a powerful tool for community transformation.
WE IDENTIFY
Every fall, we collaborate with schools and community organizations in historically marginalized areas to identify students with strong or emerging leadership potential. These students are invited to join our team as Fellows, where they work alongside educators, community leaders, and local professionals to develop their skills and drive positive change. Fellows also recruit their peers to join as Members, building a supportive network committed to creating meaningful impact in their communities.
WE INVEST
Throughout the fellowship, Fellows receive stipends to lead, develop, and sustain $10,000 community projects, guided by our cross-disciplinary curriculum. They also gain access to comprehensive college preparation and ongoing support. Beyond academic and project guidance, we provide both Fellows and Members with monthly social programming, career mentorship, and wellness resources to ensure their holistic growth and success.
We partner with local independent high schools and colleges to transform their facilities into “Community Design Studios” during off-hours. In these hubs, Fellows and Members gain access to state-of-the-art resources and environments, as well as the expertise of community partners who mentor and guide their work. Here, they gather to share meals, strengthen academic skills, and bring their $10,000 projects to life. Through these innovative public-private partnerships, we democratize access to exceptional learning spaces and expert mentorship, ensuring that education becomes a bridge to community empowerment.
WE INNOVATE
Bianca Estrada ‘24 Cohort 1 Fellow
“It’s really cool being here…being able to work together to create something I didn’t think I would be able to do in my entire life. ”
Hear From Our Fellows
Our Vision
We work to cultivate communities where every student will have the freedom and support to pursue their academic, career, and life goals, while uplifting others to ensure no one is left behind.
Our Core Values
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At our core, we embody 'Exceptional'—a commitment not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them, setting new benchmarks in everything we do. This isn't just about the quality of our programs or the breadth of our support; it's about fostering a deep-seated belief in our Fellows that they are deserving of nothing less than the very best. We achieve this by curating transformative experiences and opportunities that push boundaries and challenge norms, ensuring our Fellows are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel.
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Central to our mission is 'Effective'—a principle that drives us to ensure that our programs are not just well-intentioned but genuinely transformative in the academic and personal lives of our Fellows. We understand that effectiveness is measured by real-world impact, by the visible growth and progress of each individual we serve. Our commitment to being 'Effective' means we are not static; we are dynamic and responsive, continually assessing and refining our approach to align with the evolving needs of our Fellows. We are relentless in our pursuit of strategies and solutions that deliver measurable results, ensuring our programs are not only relevant but also a catalyst for meaningful change.
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“Equitable" lies at the heart of our mission, driving us to confront and dismantle the barriers that perpetuate opportunity gaps in our communities. We understand that true equity goes beyond equal treatment; it requires tailored support and resources that meet individuals where they are, recognizing and honoring their unique contexts, challenges, and strengths. Our approach is rooted in the belief that every Fellow deserves an unobstructed path to success, regardless of their background or circumstances. This commitment to equity guides our work, which is designed to not just bridge but close the divides that hinder access to education, opportunities, and personal growth.
Our Partners
Get Involved
Join us in our transformative mission to reshape the educational landscape for historically marginalized communities.
If you're passionate about driving change and want to contribute your skills and time, we welcome you to become a volunteer. Whether you're an educator, designer, mentor, or simply someone who cares deeply about education equity, we would love to have you!
For those looking to make a difference through financial support, consider donating to NewComm. Your contribution will directly fuel our efforts to create exceptional learning environments and empower the next generation of game-changing leaders. Every donation, no matter the size, contributes to our collective vision of a more inclusive and equitable education system.