Signature Events

The Bonner Speed Dating event is designed to connect our newest Bonner Program students with a wide range of community partner organizations. Held at the beginning of the academic year as part of New Bonner Orientation, this event serves as an introduction to the many meaningful ways students can get involved in the community through their Bonner internships.

The format is simple: students rotate through brief, structured conversations, much like “speed dating” with representatives from various nonprofit and community organizations. These rapid, one-on-one conversations give students the chance to learn about different missions, programs, and internship opportunities, while partners have the opportunity to share their work and connect with passionate, service-minded students eager to make a difference.

By the end of the event, students gain a clearer sense of the causes and organizations that align with their interests and values, and partners leave with potential interns excited to contribute to their mission.

The Community Partner Breakfast is an annual gathering held at the start of the academic year that brings together our valued community partners for a morning of connection, collaboration, and conversation. More than just a shared meal, this event is designed to strengthen relationships, celebrate our collective work, and set the stage for a successful year of partnership.

The breakfast offers partners the opportunity to connect with one another, exchange ideas, and build a stronger network of organizations committed to positive community impact. As a dedicated listening space, it also allows us to hear directly from our partners about their most pressing needs, emerging priorities, and evolving goals. These conversations help guide how we collaborate, ensuring that our programs and student engagement efforts align with the real challenges and opportunities facing our community.

By fostering open dialogue and shared planning, the Community Partner Breakfast helps us deepen partnerships, spark new ideas, and continue building a strong foundation for meaningful, long-term impact.

The Global Citizenship Fair is an annual event that brings together community partners, campus programs, faculty, and students to explore meaningful opportunities for engagement and collaboration. Held each year as part of Stetson University’s commitment to shared values and community impact, the fair serves as a vibrant space to connect students with internships, volunteer roles, service-learning projects, and global experiences such as study abroad.

Our Community Partners are invited to participate by hosting a table and engaging directly with students who are eager to learn about new opportunities and build meaningful connections. There is no cost to participate, and we provide a table and chairs.

The Global Citizenship Fair is an excellent chance for Partners to share their mission, recruit volunteers or interns, and inspire the next generation of Changemakers

The Nonprofit Leadership Summit is an annual gathering of nonprofit leaders, professionals, and community advocates dedicated to advancing the impact and sustainability of local mission-driven organizations. Hosted at Stetson University, the summit provides a platform for meaningful dialogue, professional development, and the exchange of innovative ideas.

Through workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities, the summit provides participants with opportunities to enhance their leadership skills, strengthen organizational strategies, and address the unique challenges facing the nonprofit sector. Each year, the event focuses on critical topics such as fundraising, governance, and marketing. It is a unique opportunity to learn from community leaders, connect with peers, and leave equipped with actionable strategies to elevate your organization’s mission.

Previous Nonprofit Leadership Theme topics included "People and Culture," which explored how nonprofit leaders build inclusive, healthy, and mission-centered environments, and "Fundraising," where participants discussed how to build a succesful fundraising campaign.

The Sweet Spot Awards Luncheon is a celebration of the extraordinary achievements and contributions made by our dedicated community partners, faculty, staff, and students. This special gathering honors the meaningful work accomplished throughout the year and recognizes the ways we come together to strengthen our community through collaboration, service, and shared purpose.

Each year, we take time to reflect on the impact of our collective efforts and celebrate the individuals and organizations who make a difference through their dedication, creativity, and leadership. Award categories are shaped by the accomplishments of our community and highlight the many ways people contribute to building lasting partnerships and creating positive change.