A bolder education,
by design.
NewComm is reimagining the purpose and value of education for students from historically marginalized communities through a practical and professional study of literature and our global communities.
What if high school students did more than just read, discuss, and write essays about Macbeth or Song of Solomon or Their Eyes Were Watching God? What if they studied these texts to design a more inclusive yoga studio in a gentrifying neighborhood in Philadelphia or to collaborate with students in Kigali, Rwanda to design information sessions about careers in solar technology?
At NewComm, we call this methodology “literary science” and we believe “Community Design Studios” are the future of public education and grassroots community development.
Here’s how we are building it:
WE IDENTIFY
Every fall, our team partners with schools and community organizations from historically marginalized communities to identify students with high leadership potential, either realized or not, and offer them the opportunity to join our team of designers, educators, community stakeholders, and powerful local leaders as a Fellow.
WE INVEST
We provide stipends to our Fellows involved in year-long local community projects, and for those participating in our month-long international projects, we subsidize their travel costs. Alongside financial support, we offer mentorship, wellness counseling, help with post-secondary preparation, and support to stay on track through college. Our goal is to equip our Fellows all the tools they need to be the leaders we need.
We collaborate with independent schools to repurpose their facilities during off-hours as “Community Design Studios.” Here, Fellows from nearby neighborhoods gather to dissect novels, make connections, and build a $10,000 project that directly impacts their peers. These studios also host community conversations, supper clubs, and other social events that further enhance their learning experience. Through these innovative public-private partnerships, we significantly amplify our mission to collapse the space between learning and doing.
WE INNOVATE
Bianca Estrada ‘24 Cohort 1
“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 believe an education experience tied to purposeful humanities study and deeply rooted civic engagement will equip those closest to America's systemic challenges with the tools to build better futures for themselves and the communities they serve.
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