Assistant Dean of Student Development

Adrienne Tharp, Assistant Dean of Student Development at Waynesburg University, embodies a life of service through her leadership of the Bonner Scholars Program and the Center for Service Leadership. Guiding over 60 students annually, she fosters transformative experiences that blend academic learning with meaningful community engagement. Her initiatives include organizing service trips to Pittsburgh, where students engage with organizations addressing urban poverty, and leading local projects with Greene County Habitat for Humanity. Tharp also champions mental health awareness by coordinating the annual Out of the Darkness Campus Walk, uniting the campus and community in support of suicide prevention. Through her dedication, Tharp cultivates a culture of empathy, leadership, and lifelong commitment to service among students.

Director of Academic Community Engagement

Allison Schultz has led the office of Academic Community Engagement and Bonner Leader Program at Siena College since 2019 and its Director of Operations since 2015. Prior to that, she served as an Assistant Dean at both Siena and Georgetown University. She is a lifelong learner and advocate for students. Allison recently completed a doctorate in higher education, focusing her dissertation on insights for program effectiveness gleaned from interviews and analysis of the perspectives of engaged undergraduate students.

Allison brings a steady hand and perspective to her work at Siena College and across the Bonner Network. She consistently shows up for her students, peers, and colleagues. Her peaceful presence, combined with insights and intellect, lift others. Allison conveys the maturity and integrity of a leader with deep resilience, perseverance, and kindness.
— Ariane Hoy

Associate Provost for Strategic Initiatives and Community Engagement

Dr. Amy Howard has dedicated her career to advancing civic engagement, equity, and community-centered leadership. As Associate Provost for Strategic Initiatives and Community Engagement at the University of Richmond, she has been a tireless advocate for integrating community voice into institutional decision-making and student learning. A longtime champion of the Bonner Program, Amy has played a pivotal role in its success at Richmond and across the national network. Her visionary leadership has expanded access, deepened partnerships, and empowered students to pursue lives rooted in justice and service. Amy embodies the Bonner values through her commitment to collaboration, her belief in student potential, and her efforts to build lasting systems of equity and inclusion. Her life’s work reflects the profound impact of leading with purpose and heart.

Director of the CELTS, Director of Service-Learning, Bonner Scholars Program Director

Ashley Cochrane has dedicated 22 years to nurturing the Bonner Program at Berea College through her leadership as Director of the Center for Excellence in Learning through Service (CELTS), Director of Service-Learning, and Bonner Scholars Program Director. Her unwavering commitment and visionary guidance have profoundly shaped generations of service-minded students. CELTS is deeply grateful for her years of service and the lasting impact she has made on the campus and community.

Senior Associate Director, Student Engagement, Bonner Center for Civic Engagement

Blake was hired into the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement at UR in 2010 as an administrative coordinator. After a year in the role, Blake transitioned into the role of Bonner Scholars Program coordinator. Since then, Blake has had nearly every role imaginable with the program, serving as Assistant Director, then Associate Director, and then Director; now, he leads the Student Engagement Team, of which Bonner is a part, helping to ground our cross campus engagement in the values and ethic that characterize the Bonner program. From Day 1, Blake has been a critical part of UR's Bonner program, bringing his administrative skill, his curiosity, and his demonstrated belief in the value of every human being in support of the Bonner community. Blake exemplifies the Common Commitment of Community-Building, and he has established and sustained a vibrant community of Bonner Scholars.

For nearly fifteen years, Blake has brought his passion for community-building to UR's Bonner program, serving in nearly every role imaginable with the program, from administrative coordinator to director. Today, he leads the Student Engagement Team, helping to ground our cross campus engagement in the values and ethic that characterize the Bonner program.
— Sylvia Gale

Assistant Vice President of Admissions & Financial Aid

Brian has been deeply engaged with the Macalester Bonner Community Scholars Program since its inception. His experience as a professional with expertise in Bonner financial aid packages was instrumental to how we've structured our program commitments, opportunities and support. Beyond Bonner, Brian has been a true advocate for the needs of our FGLI (first-generation, low-income) communities on campus for over 20+ years.

On behalf of the Community Engagement Center, we are grateful for your consistent support and senior leadership for those underserved and under-resourced communities on our campus on beyond. You are a true ally and advocate!
— Ruth Janisch

Assistant Provost for High Impact Practices and Student Support

Brittany Aydelotte began as a Bonner in the second class of Bonners at TCNJ in 2005. After graduating, she completed an AmeriCorps term supporting the Bonner program and a local community partner for a year. She then spent 7 years as a Bonner coordinator, another year as the "research and projects manager" for the larger Center for Community Engagement, and then 6 years as the director of Community Engaged Learning at TCNJ. Throughout all of these roles she has supported, enhanced, and advocated for, the TCNJ Bonner program which grew from 12 students to 100 students during Britt's tenure as a staff member. She has supported countless TCNJ Bonners in pursuing their passions, built meaningful relationships throughout campus and the Trenton community to expand the reach of our Community Engagement programs, and was recently appointed the Assistant Provost for High Impact Practices and Student Support where she will continue to advocate for and support our work.

“Brittany has spent nearly two decades growing and championing the TCNJ Bonner program—from student to staff to campus leader. Her impact spans student mentorship, campus-community partnerships, and program expansion. Now Assistant Provost, she continues to embody Bonner values and has truly lived a life of service, leadership, and lasting impact.”
— Katie Kahn, The College of New Jersey

Vice President for Community Partnerships

Now Vice President for Community Partnerships, Bryan Murdock has led and managed the development of the center and programs in community engagement at Montclair State University for over 20 years. During this time, Montclair has earned the Carnegie Community Engagement and Leadership for Public Purpose Classifications, expanded integration of community engaged teaching and learning, and trained dozens of faculty and hundreds of students.

Bryan brings a patient yet consistent presence to Montclair State University and the network. He nurtures the growth of their team and persuades colleagues to join their efforts. Bryan draws on his own deep experience over multiple decades, with service, AmeriCorps, grants management, and professional development to foster excellence.
— Ariane Hoy

Senior Program Coordinator for Community Outreach

Claudio Mir’s life is a powerful example of service through art, education, and community engagement. Originally from the Dominican Republic, he trained as a professional actor before immigrating to the U.S., where he began using theater to address social issues like HIV/AIDS awareness.A proud alumnus of Middlesex College and Rutgers University, Mir holds a BFA in visual arts and an MFA in creative writing. At Rutgers, he serves as Senior Program Coordinator for Community Outreach at the Collaborative Center, where he co-directs the Advancing Community Development Program and previously led the Bonner Leader Program, helping students engage in meaningful service work. For decades, Mir has led the AMARD\&V Summer Camp, using art to empower New Brunswick youth. He also contributes to community-based initiatives like "Windows of Understanding," promoting dialogue and healing through public art. Recognized as Middlesex College’s 2024 Alumnus of the Year and a 2023 inductee into the Rutgers African-American Alumni Alliance Hall of Fame, Mir embodies a lifelong commitment to justice, creativity, and education. His work continues to uplift underserved communities and inspire generations to serve.

Director of Community Engagement

Dr. Daniel Fidalgo Tomé, Ed.D., M.Ed., has dedicated his career to advancing civic engagement and experiential learning in higher education. Currently serving as the Director of Community Engagement at Rutgers University–Camden, he leads initiatives that integrate community-based learning into academic curricula, fostering partnerships between students, faculty, and local organizations . Prior to his role at Rutgers, Dr. Tomé was the Director of Service-Learning at Stockton University, where he expanded service-learning programs, launched and directed the Bonner Leader Program, and co-chaired the annual Martin Luther King Day of Service, engaging hundreds of students in meaningful community work. His leadership extended nationally as chair of the American Democracy Project’s steering committee, promoting civic responsibility across campuses. An advocate for first-generation and low-income students, Dr. Tomé's research focuses on enhancing access to higher education through programs like Federal Work-Study. In 2023–2024, he served as Campus Compact’s Community Service Federal Work-Study Fellow, developing resources to strengthen community engagement initiatives nationwide Dr. Tomé’s unwavering commitment to social justice and education continues to inspire transformative learning experiences that empower students and uplift communities.

Executive Director

Greg Grant is one of the longest standing Bonner partners with over 20 years supporting the TCNJ Bonner institute. He embodies community building, social justice, and diversity in many ways, but mostly through the manner in which he uplifts students and families at the Academic Sports Academy. Through his work he has created and sustained a safe and vibrant community that exposes young people to new opportunities, and does so much for a community that is often over looked.

Thank you Greg for all that you have done, for the children and families of Trenton, and the countless ways you have supported TCNJ Bonner Scholars.
— Althia Muse

Director of Financial Aid

You could be hard pressed to find a leader more diligent, caring and competent than Jenae. She makes difficult conversations less hard and centers the needs of students & families in both the policies, procedures and ethics of her office and staff. Many find Macalester possible due to her thoughtful responses, systemic changes, and genuine leadership within her field.

Jenae, so much of what we do would not be possible without your leadership and support! You bring decades of care, concern and competence to each and every interaction and truly represent the very best of Macalester!
— Ruth Janisch, on behalf of CEC staff

Director of the Center for Community Based Learning

Jessalyn Wynn Story exemplifies a life devoted to service, education, and community empowerment. As the founding director of Wofford College’s Center for Community-Based Learning and longtime leader of the Bonner Scholars Program, she has transformed civic engagement into a cornerstone of the Wofford experience. Story’s leadership has expanded opportunities for students to connect classroom learning with real-world impact, fostering partnerships that benefit both campus and community. Her vision emphasizes reciprocal, place-based learning and the development of civic identity, preparing students to become thoughtful, effective leaders. Through her work, Story has helped shape a generation of Wofford graduates committed to justice, collaboration, and the common good.

Director, Bonner Office of Civic Engagement

Jilo Tisdale has led the Bonner Office of Civic Engagement at Spelman College for over a decade, guiding a dynamic team dedicated to fostering civic responsibility among students. Under her leadership, the office offers a spectrum of opportunities—from introductory service experiences to multi-year community-based internships—that empower Spelman students to engage meaningfully with the surrounding Atlanta community. Working alongside faculty and community partners, she advocates for service-learning and community-based teaching, ensuring students’ academic journeys extend beyond the classroom. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and community building is exemplified through initiatives like Project Impact, which mobilizes Spelman students as leaders in projects designed to positively affect the community within a 1.7-mile radius of the campus. A particular source of pride for Ms. Tisdale is the SpelREADS literacy program. Launched in 2018, SpelREADS connects Spelman students with elementary and middle school learners in Atlanta Public Schools, providing one-on-one tutoring to enhance literacy skills. The program has demonstrated success, with participating students making significant reading gains. Beyond academic improvement, SpelREADS fosters mentorship and community connection, creating a supportive environment for both learners and Spelman students serving as reading guides. With a background in literacy and early childhood education, Ms. Tisdale finds deep fulfillment in witnessing the transformative power of reading. She believes literature opens worlds of possibility, inspiring a lifelong love of learning and connection.

The older I get the better I know that the secret of my going on is when the reins are in the hands of the young, who dare to run against the storm. - Sweet Honey In the Rock Thank you for bridging the gap and making a way.
— Felicia Deas

Bonner Director

When Bonner alumni describe their Bonner experience, one theme emerges consistently: admiration, respect, and love for Kathy Ball. With 27+ years of service to the Bonner Program, her commitment and genuine love for the work she does have greatly impacted the lives of people all over the world, most notably her students, whom she nurtures and treats as if they were her own. She instills the importance of kindness and care for others in her daily actions, always embodying the Bonner mission. With her vast wisdom, experience, and direction, Kathy has left an indelible mark on the Bonner Program and beyond. She never seeks praise or recognition for the work she does (in fact, she did not advocate for herself to be nominated for this award), but she deserves all of the credit in the world for her life dedicated to service. Her example is a powerful testament to the true meaning of Bonner Love!

Kathy has changed the lives of so many students, myself included. She makes everyone she meets fall in love with community engagement and the Bonner Program. Saying thank you is just the beginning of the praise she deserves for her life dedicated to serving others. We love you, Kathy!
— Peyton Brown-Lusk

Senior Associate Director, Community Relationships, Bonner Center for Civic Engagement

Kim, a UR Bonner alumn, class of '97 was first hired into the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement in 2007, and served as director of the Bonner Scholars program for 4 years before moving into other center roles. Now the anchor of the Bonner Center's Community Relationships Team and strategy, Kim's advocacy for the Bonner Program has never ceased. She is a champion for intentional civic engagement, helping to identify fruitful placements for Bonners and many other students, and bringing her commitment to equity and justice to everything she does.

Kim (UR Bonner ’97!) has led with vision and heart for nearly 18 years—first as Bonner Director, now as a key strategist. She champions civic engagement and equity, identifying student placements with care and purpose while advancing community relationships that reflect her deep commitment to justice and transformative partnership.
— Sylvia Gale

Director/Senior Lecturer at Learning in the Community

Kristine Hart has built a remarkable legacy of service and leadership at Washburn University, where she began as an AmeriCorps VISTA and has grown into the roles of Bonner Coordinator, Director, and Lecturer. Her journey reflects a deep and sustained commitment to student development, civic engagement, and community partnership. Through her leadership, Kristine has strengthened the Bonner Program at Washburn, guiding students to become thoughtful, justice-oriented leaders. She brings compassion, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose to her work—both in and out of the classroom. Kristine’s impact is felt across campus and in the community, where her efforts have built bridges and fostered long-term collaboration. Her dedication to living the Bonner mission is evident in every role she has held, making her a powerful example of a life devoted to service, learning, and justice.

Director of Public Service Programs

Krystal has served at Montclair State University for nearly 15 years. During her time at the university, she has played a key role in expanding the campus's capacity for community engagement. She was instrumental in launching the Bonner Leader Program, which began with just 3–4 students and has since grown into a comprehensive four-year program serving over 45 students. Under her leadership, the office has helped the university secure millions of dollars in grant funding to support civic and community engagement initiatives. In addition, the office now offers a wide range of service and engagement opportunities for students across campus. Krystal continues to give back to both the university and its community partners by actively participating in numerous activities beyond her daily responsibilities.

Krystal is an inspiration to many seasoned professionals, but what truly sets her apart is the way she invests in young professionals. She leads by example, sharing her own experiences to teach others how to make college campuses more community-engaged and inclusive. Her mentorship empowers us to grow both personally and professionally, helping us become the best versions of ourselves.
— Mikaela Guzman

Director of the Bonner Center for Community Engagement

For 28 years, Laurie Chandler has been the heart of the Bonner Program at Berry College, shaping generations of student leaders and building lasting partnerships rooted in trust and mutual respect. Her unwavering dedication, wisdom, and compassion have created a model of community engagement that reflects the deepest values of the Bonner mission. Laurie’s legacy is seen in the lives of hundreds of Bonner Scholars she has mentored—many of whom credit her steady guidance and belief in their potential as life-changing. Her commitment to justice, education, and community has transformed not only a program, but an entire campus culture. Laurie Chandler’s decades of service are a profound testament to what it means to lead with integrity, humility, and heart. She embodies the spirit of Bonner in every way.

Director of Community Engagement

Liz Brandt has been a part of the Bonner Network since she joined the Bonner Scholar Program as a freshman at Centre College. After graduation, she spent a year learning advocacy through MassPIRGs, a public interest organization. She then directed the Bonner Program at Centre College, also working to develop a Minor in Social Justice. In 2018, she joined the Bonner Foundation as Community Engagement Director, where she plans and runs national meetings, provides campus support, and develops resources and initiatives.

Liz carries the spirit of the Bonner Program and its Common Commitments in her work and life. She is a consistent presence of joy and peace within the network. She loves being a weaver, connecting individuals, programs, and purpose-driven work. Liz is a wonderful friend and colleague, and she is a multi-talented, strategic, and gifted leader and organizer.
— Ariane Hoy

Robert Green has been a Bonner community partner 10+ years, beginning in 2011. As a lifelong resident of the Lower 9th Ward, Robert has invited countless Macalester groups into his home, which was rebuilt by the Make it Right Foundation and shared his story of surviving Huricane Katrina, despite losing both his mother and granddaughter in the storm.

Robert's generosity and kindness knows no bounds and he has been an outstanding community partner, connector and friend for over a decade!
— Ruth Janisch & Sedric McClure

Director Service Internship Programs

Robin Hille Michaels has been a dedicated leader and advocate for community engagement as part of the Bonner Program at Sewanee for twelve years. Through her thoughtful mentorship and steadfast commitment, Robin has helped cultivate a generation of students who are deeply committed to service, social justice, and meaningful community partnerships. Her work at Sewanee has strengthened the connection between campus and community, fostering a culture where students learn to lead with empathy and integrity. Robin’s passion for equity and sustained service shines through in every initiative she supports. Robin Hille Michaels exemplifies the Bonner mission by inspiring students to live lives of purpose and impact, creating lasting change both locally and beyond.

Associate Dean of Kofi Annan Institute for Global Citizenship & Co-Director of Community Engagement Center

Over the course of almost 20 years, Ruth & Sedric developed a robust Bonner culture at Macalester, providing generations of scholars with transformative experiences of social justice and civic engagement in New Orleans, deep community partnership in the Twin Cities, careful guidance and support, and lasting belonging through Bonner.

Though you both prefer to let your work speak for itself, you each deserve some overdue recognition for the decades of intention and commitment you have put into building community through Bonner, mentoring many Bonner Scholars and countless others, and highlighting the critical work of unheralded community members and groups.
— CEC Staff

Associate Dean, KAIGC & Co-Director, CEC

Over the course of almost 20 years, Ruth & Sedric have together developed a robust Bonner culture at Macalester, providing generations of scholars with transformative experiences of social justice and civic engagement in New Orleans, deep community partnership in the Twin Cities, careful guidance and support, and lasting belonging through Bonner.

Though you both prefer to let your work speak for itself, you each deserve some overdue recognition for the decades of intention and commitment you have put into building community through Bonner, mentoring many Bonner Scholars and countless others, and highlighting the critical work of unheralded community members and groups.
— CEC Staff

CELTS Program Associate

Sheila Lyons has devoted 35 years of service to the Center for Excellence in Learning through Service (CELTS) at Berea College as the Program Associate. Her steady presence, attention to detail, and behind-the-scenes dedication have ensured smooth operations and created a strong foundation for the success of the Bonner Scholars Program. CELTS is profoundly grateful for Sheila’s lasting dedication and the care she brings to every aspect of her work.

Executive Director of the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement

Dr. Sylvia Gale embodies a profound commitment to service and civic engagement. As Executive Director of the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement at the University of Richmond, she has strengthened community partnerships and created meaningful learning opportunities for students. Over the past fifteen years, Sylvia’s work includes connecting students with incarcerated youth through peer storytelling projects, fostering empathy and understanding across divides. She has also played key roles nationally, including serving on Imagining America’s advisory board and advancing public scholarship initiatives. Her leadership and dedication inspire lasting impact in higher education and beyond, making her a true model of the Bonner spirit of service.

Senior Associate Director, Community-Engaged Learning at University of Richmond

In her more than 17 years in the CCE, Terry has developed and demonstrated the generative faculty development model now at the heart of the CCE's curricular community engagement. This model, which centers faculty learning in community with one another, has been adopted and adapted in numerous ways across UR, and Terry has become a sought after faculty development consultant on our campus and beyond. The CCE's strategy for faculty engagement, articulated and led by Terry, is to “accompany” faculty, supporting and incentivizing community engagement by acting as a hub and resource, not as a gatekeeper. The range of models the CCE now supports, and the large number of faculty with sustained relationships with community partners, can be traced back to this strategy. Her impact on curricular community engagement is wide and deep.

Interim Director of the Hartman Center for Civic Engagement and the Bonner Scholar Program

Valerie Rudolph has dedicated her career to fostering civic engagement and community partnerships. Currently serving as the Interim Director of the Hartman Center for Civic Engagement and the Bonner Scholar Program at DePauw University, Valerie has been instrumental in guiding students to become active, socially responsible citizens. With over 18 years of experience in community engagement, Valerie has held various roles, including directing the social justice center and coordinating the Bonner Program. Her leadership has been pivotal in integrating service learning into the university's culture, ensuring that students not only engage with the community but also reflect on their experiences to foster personal and collective growth. Valerie's unwavering commitment to service, both within and outside the university, exemplifies the core values of the Bonner Program. Her dedication continues to inspire and shape the next generation of community leaders.