Honos Civicus at the Fletcher School

Honos Civicus, Latin for “Civic Honors,” celebrates and publicly recognizes graduating students who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to community service and civic engagement during their studies at Fletcher. Inductees have the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on their commitment to engagement in communities around the world. The award also reflects Fletcher’s goal of educating internationally-minded students who are committed to active citizenship throughout their professional careers.

Strong Candidates Will Have

• A demonstrated commitment to public service and civic engagement in the U.S. or abroad.  
• Demonstrated leadership and dedication.
• Made a positive impact.
• A commitment to Fletcher’s mission of increasing international understanding and promoting relationships of mutual benefit, security and justice around the world.
• A strong record of professionalism, ethical behavior, and academics.

Eligibility

Honors are for degree-seeking students who are in good academic standing only. Eligible students are those who are graduating in 2024.

Review

Applications will be reviewed by Fletcher’s Honos Civicus Committee, which is made up of Fletcher staff members whose jobs and backgrounds provide insight into service and the Fletcher student experience.

Timeline

The application timeline for the Class of 2024 will be:

• January 22, 2024 : Applications open
• March 1, 2024 : Applications due at end of day
• April 2024: Announcement of Class of 2024 Honos Civicus Society
• May 17, 2024: Honos Civicus Society Induction Ceremony (Medford)
   

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of membership in the Honos Civicus Society?

• Fletcher and Tufts want to celebrate students who embody the school’s values of active citizens and leadership—public service can sometimes take place “behind the scenes,” and we want to recognize this important work
• Students are recognized at Fletcher and Tufts events in April and May
• Students are recognized at graduation, with a notation in the Commencement program and an Honos Civicus pin for the Commencement gown
• Students are featured on the Tisch College of Civic Life website and other Tufts University publications
• Students join Tufts’ Honos Civicus alumni group, a network of civically active alumni
• Students meet others who share their commitment to service and advocacy

What is civic engagement?  

Civic Engagement includes the ability to:

• Think critically about civic problems in the United States and internationally.
• Engage effectively with diverse individuals and communities.
• Communicate powerfully.
• Collaborate effectively with individuals and groups.
• Understand your own values, motivations, passions, and ethics—and act on them.
• Recognize one’s responsibility to a larger community, both within the United States and on a more global scale.

What types of activities should I have participated in to apply for Honos Civicus?

Suggested activities and/or combination of activities - above and beyond degree requirements and paid jobs or internships - include but are not limited to the following:

• Everyday acts of volunteer service.
• Participation in social movements, advocacy, or electoral politics.
• Community outreach through Fletcher student organizations that involve underserved or vulnerable communities or population groups.
• Campus-community partnerships.
• Volunteer work with non-governmental organizations.
• Service and commitment to improving communities based either in the United States or internationally.

What types of activities do not count towards Honos Civicus?

Service required as part of course or program requirements, military service, summer internships, or jobs will not be considered for Honos Civicus. Activities that terminated before entrance into the Fletcher School will similarly not count towards an application. 

Questions?

Email Kate Drizos Cavell.