Appalachian State University student Ava Zellman has been selected for an award recognizing outstanding leadership and service by North Carolina Campus Engagement, a statewide network of colleges and universities committed to preparing students for civic and social responsibility. Zellman is a recipient of the network’s Community Impact Student Award (CISA), which honors one student leader at each participating member school. The CISA recognizes students with a deep commitment to community involvement, an outstanding ability to inspire peers, and evidence of sustainable impact. NC Campus Engagement honored the recipients during the 2025 Citizenship, Service, Networking & Partnerships (CSNAP) Student Conference on November 8 at NC A&T State University.
Zellman, a senior majoring in Social Work, is a Civic Literacy Fellow at Appalachian State University who has helped build a lasting culture of civic literacy. She regularly works both individually and in collaboration with other Fellows to educate the campus community about voting rights. With her assistance in the 2024-25 academic year, the Civic Literacy Fellows presented voter education presentations, planned and executed events, and engaged 1800+ students on Appalachian State University’s campus. In 2025, Zellman supported the establishment of the Democra-Cycle program in partnership with the University Recreation Center. Zellman further serves the campus and community through “Dialogue Across Difference” programs. She is also a Social Work intern and childcare provider for The Children’s Council of Watauga County, and she has volunteered her time for organizations such as the Appalachian State Women’s Resource Center and Girls on the Run.
Zellman’s nominator spoke highly of her work ethic and influence, saying, “Ava has an exceptional ability to lead and inspire her peers. Other students are often seeking her guidance not only for her knowledge but also for the high standards she sets for herself.”
North Carolina Campus Engagement (NCCE) is a collaborative network of colleges and universities committed to educating students for civic and social responsibility, partnering with communities for positive change, and strengthening democracy. The NC Campus Engagement state office fosters connections between campuses, shares best practice information and resources, recognizes outstanding work, and champions civic and community engagement in higher education. To learn more visit nccampusengagement.org.