From left, Robin Bachin, President Donna E. Shalala, Meera Nagarsheth, and Andrew Wiemer.

Meera Nagarsheth, a University of Miami sophomore studying microbiology and immunology, has been named a 2012 Campus Compact Newman Civic Fellow in recognition of her inspiring leadership and efforts in finding solutions to public health challenges faced by local and global communities.

The award is named for Dr. Frank Newman, one of the founders of Campus Compact, who dedicated his life to creating opportunities for student civic learning and engagement.

Nagarsheth serves on eight student organizations and is a student researcher in the Miller School of Medicine’s Department of Epidemiology and Public Health. She also volunteers with Neighborhood Housing Services of South Florida, conducting community-based participatory research on health disparities in Miami’s most distressed communities. She believes that more than just a one-time action, service should be a lifelong commitment to creating lasting social change.

Nagarsheth was recently presented with her award by UM President Donna E. Shalala; Andrew D. Wiemer, director of UM’s William R. Butler Center for Volunteer Service and Leadership Development; and Robin Bachin, assistant provost for civic and community engagement.