Bonner Scholars at Stetson are motivated and impassioned students—most of them with high financial need—who value social justice and enjoy working with community partners in order to make the world a better place. Bonner Scholars receive financial assistance and scholarships from Stetson University and the Bonner Foundation. In return, these students commit to eight hours per week to a service project or agency of their choice, and most continue with that service relationship throughout their Stetson career. 

Students also receive regular training in various aspects of servant-leadership and community development.  Past training facilitators have included a U.S. Senator, an international children’s advocate, and Stetson staff and faculty, among others.  Students have also participated in several national leadership conferences and international service trips - most of which are fully-funded through the Bonner Scholars Program.

The community benefits because this is much more than “one-stop” volunteering.  Through the Bonner program, local agencies receive talented students who serve as consistent, long-term partners. As students work more with their community partners and receive skill-enhacing training, they take on different responsibilities that match the their passions and strengths while meeting community needs at the same time.

The Corella & Bertram F. Bonner Foundation:  The Bonner Scholars Program is supported by the Bonner Foundation, which was founded in 1989 and is based in Princeton, New Jersey.  Through the Bonner Foundation, Stetson University students have access to a number of leadership trainings and internship opportunities, as well as a national network of more than 50 other colleges and universities committed to quality service.  For more information on the national Bonner movement, visit the foundation’s website at www.bonner.org. 

"Stetson University’s mission is a commitment to educate students to live great lives. We believe that the undergraduate experience can change a student’s life, and that it can, through the lives of students, change communities, as well. We invite you to join us in this adventure. Become a part of Stetson’s call to transformation and service.”
-- Dr. Douglas Lee, Former President of Stetson University