Patrick Ammerman '14, a biology major from Cincinnati, Ohio, is the recipient of a 2013 Newman Civic Fellows Award for his enduring commitment to environmental sustainability. The Newman Civic Fellows Awards are presented to college student leaders who demonstrate an investment in finding solutions for challenges in communities. Ammerman was recognized specifically for his "relationship building, quiet leadership, and organizational initiatives," all of which enable him to serve as a "vital resource for environmental awareness and justice."

Ammerman, who minors in English literature and environmental studies, has integrated his academic program with environmental activism. He has facilitated communication among the College's seven student environmental groups by convening meetings of the student Ecosphere coalition, preparing a weekly environmental newsletter called SwatEcosphere for the College community, and serving as student liaison and administrative support to the College's multi-constituent, campus-wide Sustainability Committee.

Ammerman is also the co-founder of SwatFrackAction, a student-run group dedicated to education and activism regarding hydraulic fracturing for natural gas. In that capacity, he has worked to invite guest speakers to campus and to organize a trip bringing students to a front-line community. He has partnered off-campus as well, serving as a summer intern for AFewSteps.org, a coalition of local community members committed to sustainability initiatives.

Newman Civic Fellows are recommended by college and university presidents to acknowledge motivation and ability in public leadership. The awards are named for educator Frank Newman, who dedicated his life to creating systemic change through education reform.