Political science major Alice Neira recently was chosen as one of three students in the state to receive the Student Excellence in Service Award presented by Florida Campus Compact. The award recognizes students for outstanding service to communities through service-learning and volunteerism.
Neira is pursuing her bachelor’s degree while earning a minor in education and a certification in leadership studies. Aside from her undergraduate studies, she is heavily involved in the community.
She serves meals and builds relationships every Sunday night with people in downtown Orlando who are homeless, works with City Year Orlando to serve students at risk of dropping out of school, and guides students, faculty, and community leaders in meaningful experiences on campus such as the 20th annual Hunger Banquet.
“Alice is a thoughtful and poised young servant-leader who inspires those around her to be, know, and do more,” Florida Campus Compact said in announcing the award.
Neira moved from Peru to the United States when whe was 6. Her goal is to combine her knowledge of education policy and passion for community service to positively impact students in public school systems in and provide equal access to education, especially in underserved areas.
She plans to attend graduate school and acquire her Ph.D. in education policy. Neira also serves as the Volunteer UCF hunger and homelessness director.
Florida Campus Compact is part of a national presidential membership organization comprised of more than 50 college and university presidents who are committed to helping students develop the values and skills of active citizenship through participation in public and community service.