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VWU Establishes National Bonner Leaders Program
Students selected as Bonner Leaders will use their talents to serve the community
University News | March 28, 2019
President Scott D. Miller has announced the establishment of the . The program is an intensive, four-year community leadership opportunity that educates, equips, and inspires students to engage in our local community and beyond through a partnership with the Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation.
Students must to the program and meet certain criteria to be selected as a Bonner Leader at VWU. Selected students will be committed to serving the community by using their gifts and talents where needed. The six pillars--or common commitments of Bonner Leaders--are civic engagement, community building, diversity, international perspective, spiritual exploration, and social justice.
Students in the program develop leadership skills by participating in meetings, training workshops, internships, and service. Upon graduation, Bonner Leaders will continue to seek ways in which they can enrich their communities through leadership of non-profits and/or direct service.
Dr. Brian Kurisky, Director of Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning at VWU, worked to bring this distinctive program to the University.
“Through this impressive program, students will not only develop a deep understanding of the six pillars, but will also gain experience and knowledge about our community that they can connect back to their academic studies,” said Kurisky. “They’ll have unique opportunities to gain real-world grass-roots leadership, advocacy and other skills that will translate into success well after they graduate from Virginia Wesleyan.”
For more information about becoming a Bonner Leader, contact Dr. Brian Kurisky, Director of Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning, at VWUBonners@vwu.edu or call 757-455-3216.