Director of Alumni and Donor Relations

As Concord University’s Director of Alumni and Donor Relations, Blake Farmer [Class of 2017] is in a unique position to impact our campus and community. During his tenure as a Bonner scholar, Blake served as senior communications intern, sharing information and connecting with other scholars. In his professional role, he’s continued making these same connections with Concord alumni, working to build connections and community within our alumni population. Blake was instrumental in the organization of our annual CU Day of Service, an event that brings alumni together with current students, faculty, staff, and administrators for a day focused on various community service events. Personally, Blake and his family have had a long history of working with disadvantaged children and youth, for many years serving as organizers for the Royal Family Kids Camp, a summer experience for children who would otherwise not have access to this type of fun childhood event. In both his personal and professional lives, Blake embodies the Concord motto of “Come to Learn, Go to Serve.”

Founder & Executive Director

Brianna Baker exemplifies the core values of the B-Loved community through her transformative work with Justice For Black Girls (JBG), which serves as a powerful testament to the commitment to social justice. As a magna cum laude graduate and visionary educator, Baker has dedicated her career to creating spaces that affirm and elevate Black girlhood, while challenging systemic inequities through innovative educational methods. Her groundbreaking work is archived in the Library of Congress under Protests Against Racism and cited in the White House Roundtable for Girl Leaders. This demonstrates her unwavering dedication to amplifying the voices and experiences of Black girls and transforming educational and social landscapes by positioning young Black women as experts and change-makers. Through JBG, Baker has established a national platform for Black girl safety and brilliance, inspiring a movement that reimagines justice, education, and community empowerment. Brianna Baker embodies the essence of the B-Loved community through her transformative work with Justice For Black Girls (JBG), a powerful testament to the Common Commitment of social justice. As a magna cum laude graduate and visionary educator, Baker has dedicated her career to creating liberated spaces that affirm and elevate Black girlhood, challenging systemic inequities through innovative educational approaches. Her groundbreaking work, which is archived in the Library of Congress under Protests Against Racism and cited in the White House Roundtable for Girl Leaders, demonstrates an unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices and experiences of Black girls, transforming educational and social landscapes by positioning young Black women as experts and change-makers. Through JBG, Ms. Baker has created a national platform for Black girl safety and brilliance and inspired a movement that reimagines justice, education, and community empowerment.

Assistant Director of the Center for Community Engagement

Caroline Twiggs, a Berea College Bonner Scholar alumna, serves as the Assistant Director of the Center for Community Engagement at Mars Hill University and a leader in the Bonner Network. Her ongoing commitment to service and leadership continues to inspire and strengthen the Bonner community.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Chaz Barracks a University of Richmond Bonner alum, exemplifies the power of combining civic engagement with creative expression to drive social change. Throughout his career, Chaz has integrated art, storytelling, and cultural expression into his community development and justice work—believing deeply in the transformative role of the arts in movements for equity and liberation. With a background spanning multimedia communications, the arts, and higher education, Chaz has worked to uplift underserved communities and promote systemic change. His approach uniquely blends strategic action with storytelling as tools to amplify marginalized voices, foster empathy, and inspire collective action. Whether teaching in the classroom, curating creative community spaces, or supporting grassroots movements, Chaz centers creativity as a catalyst for healing, dialogue, and empowerment. His work reflects the heart of the Bonner mission—rooted in justice, inclusion, and imagination—and serves as a powerful reminder that art and activism together can shape a more equitable world.

Operations and Special Projects Coordinator

Clifton Davis serves as the Operations and Special Projects Coordinator at the Bonner Foundation, where he has brought a unique approach and skill set to campus support. Cliff draws on his own experiences as Bonner Scholar at Morehouse College, as well as his work as an educator and teacher. Cliff relishes engaging with teams and working strategically to achieve more impact.

Cliff is a unique young man, one who grounds his approach in his own experiences. Through empathy and energy, he nurtures others to step up and to engage successfully. Cliff can be a patient coach or a strategic leader. I enjoy watching Cliff find his own pathway for service and social change, and I hope it leads to many rewarding places.—Ariane Hoy

Director of Strategic Storytelling

Cory is a 2019 Bonner alum from University of Richmond. Cory’s dedication to the common commitments—particularly diversity, community building, and civic engagement--were evident when he was a student, and he continues to live them out as a Richmond resident. Whether Cory was co-planning impactful programming at University of Richmond’s downtown center or supporting his peers in getting off campus and meaningfully connecting with the region around them or, currently, supporting connections between UR alums and the city we live in or shining a light on our local United Way’s collaborations, Cory is always attending to fostering important connections and inviting folks to genuinely be in community together. We were lucky to have Cory as a Spider and are even luckier to have him as a Richmonder again.

Richmond is lucky to have you, Cory! Thanks for all you do to help us all find genuine connections with each other—Kim Dean-Anderson.

Law Student at Georgetown Law

It is with great admiration that we recognize Dalton Lucas, a dedicated and impactful advocate whose unwavering commitment to service and community engagement has made a significant difference. As a former participant and champion of the Bonner Leader Program, Dalton exemplifies the values of civic responsibility, leadership, and social justice—principles that are at the heart of the program’s mission and the Common Commitments. Throughout his time at High Point University, Dalton demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading HPU Votes, an initiative aimed at transforming the campus into a voter-friendly environment. His efforts in registering students and promoting civic participation have earned HPU Votes recognition as a prominent student organization actively advancing the mission of fostering engaged and informed citizens. This work reflects his dedication to the Common Commitment of Civic Engagement, inspiring others to participate actively in shaping their communities and the democratic process. Dalton’s diverse experiences—ranging from supporting voting rights at the States United Democracy Center to serving as a Staff Assistant for Congresswoman Kathy Manning—highlight his ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism and integrity. His leadership in coordinating communication, managing interns, and developing emergency response plans further underscore his commitment to service, community safety, and organizational excellence. Dalton Lucas’s unwavering dedication to public service, his leadership in promoting civic engagement, and his ability to inspire others exemplify the transformative impact of the Bonner Leader Program. His work continues to serve as a testament to the power of committed individuals to create positive change in their communities and beyond.

Thank you for your lifelong dedication to serving as an agent of positive change across the world.—Robert Tillman

Georgia State Representative

El-Mahdi Holly, a Bonner alum of Morehouse College, continues to live the mission through a life rooted in service, justice, and leadership. El-Mahdi’s commitment to community began early—earning him the National Youth Service Award from President Bill Clinton for mentoring teens. He went on to earn a Master of Public Administration with a focus on strategic planning and public service management. Throughout his dynamic career, El-Mahdi has worked with nonprofits and faith-based organizations to combat sex trafficking, promote social justice, and expand job training programs. He has also served as a senior law clerk, criminal warrant officer, and regional political field director, advocating for equitable policies and civic engagement across Georgia. Today, he represents Georgia House District 116, championing the needs of working families while continuing to serve the next generation through his work with the Henry County Board of Education. El-Mahdi’s journey from Bonner Scholar to state representative reflects the power of servant leadership and a lifelong dedication to uplifting others. His work exemplifies the mission and values of the Bonner Program in action.

Senior Financial Planning Analyst

Elvis Diaz, a proud Bonner alum from Berry College and former Bonner Foundation summer intern, continues to live the mission through both his professional and personal commitments. After serving as an AmeriCorps Program Associate with the Foundation, Elvis transitioned into the finance sector, where he brings a values-driven approach to his work. He remains deeply connected to his Bonner roots—supporting service initiatives like the IMPACT conference, mentoring students, and championing equity and opportunity wherever he can. Elvis exemplifies how Bonners carry their commitment to community and justice into every space they enter, proving that the mission can thrive in all sectors.

Bonner Programs Coordinator

Evyn Lundy, an Oberlin College Bonner alum, now serves as the Bonner Coordinator at her alma mater—bringing full-circle her deep commitment to community engagement and student development. As a student, Evyn embraced the Bonner Program’s values of justice, inclusion, and civic leadership, which continue to guide her in her professional role today. In her current position, Evyn supports and mentors a new generation of Bonner Scholars, fostering a culture of reflection, accountability, and community impact. Her leadership is rooted in empathy and lived experience, allowing her to connect authentically with students and help them navigate their own paths of growth and service. Through her continued dedication to the Bonner mission, Evyn exemplifies how alumni can create lasting change by investing in the next wave of leaders. Her work strengthens the Oberlin Bonner community and ensures the program remains a powerful space for student transformation and social action.

Program Director

Faith E. Porter, Program Director at Raising Expectations and Spelman College Bonner alumna, exemplifies the Bonner Living the Mission award through her dedicated professional leadership in advancing community engagement and social justice. Drawing from her transformative experiences as a Bonner Scholar at Spelman College, Faith has built a career rooted in empowering underserved youth and strengthening community partnerships. At Raising Expectations, she designs and implements innovative programs that address educational equity and opportunity gaps, ensuring young people have the resources and support needed to thrive. Faith’s leadership is marked by a deep commitment to service, mentorship, and collaborative problem-solving—values cultivated during her Bonner journey. Her work not only uplifts individuals but also builds community capacity, reflecting the Bonner mission’s core of fostering sustainable, reciprocal relationships. Faith continues to inspire others through her unwavering dedication to justice and civic responsibility, making a profound impact in the field of community engagement. As an alumna who has seamlessly transitioned into a vital professional role, Faith Porter embodies what it means to live the Bonner mission every day.

Bonner Scholars Program Director

Gabby Valentine, a proud Bonner alum from Sewanee: The University of the South, has continued to live the mission through every stage of her journey. From her impactful service as Bonner Coordinator at Carson-Newman University to her current role as Bonner Director at Oberlin College, Gabby brings fierce talent, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to the common good. She fully embodies the Bonner values in both her personal and professional life, serving as a powerful example of leadership, justice, and purpose-driven work.

Legal & Compliance Analyst

It is with great admiration that we honor Glenda Emanuel, a dedicated and passionate leader whose unwavering commitment to service and community empowerment has left a lasting impact. As a proud Bonner alumna and former President of the Bonner Leader Program, Glenda exemplifies the core values of the Common Commitments, particularly her unwavering dedication to fostering civic engagement and strengthening communities. Throughout her professional career as a Compliance Analyst at BlackRock, Glenda has championed the principles of ethical integrity and social responsibility. Her work in Anti-Bribery and Corruption within Financial Crimes demonstrates her commitment to promoting ethical business practices and ensuring financial integrity. Beyond her core responsibilities, Glenda actively supports BlackRock’s L&C pro bono program in partnership with the Georgia Justice Project, helping individuals seeking to expunge their criminal records and advocating for second chances—an embodiment of the commitment to social justice and community service. Her dedication extends beyond her professional duties as she continues to advocate for youth and community development through volunteering with youth programs at the YMCA and her previous service as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in foster care. Glenda’s ongoing efforts reflect her enduring belief in the power of community and her dedication to empowering others. Glenda Emanuel’s leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication continue to inspire all who know her. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the Bonner Leader Program and the Common Commitments, and she remains a shining example of how service can transform lives and strengthen communities.

Thank you for your lifelong dedication to serving as an agent of positive change across the world.—Robert Tillman

Director of Data and Operational Excellence

Gretchen Mielke exemplifies a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, equity, and student leadership development. A Bonner alum of the Dickinson College, Gretchen has built a career advancing the very values at the heart of the Bonner Program. Her professional journey has included leadership roles in higher education and community engagement, always focused on creating inclusive, justice-oriented spaces for students and communities to thrive. Gretchen previously served at Siena College, worked as a program associate at the Bonner Foundation, a program coordinator for American University’s Office of the Provost and manager of its Academic Living Learning Community Assessment, and was also a Fulbright grantee in South Korea. She is known for her collaborative spirit, thoughtful mentorship, and unwavering dedication to equity and access. Now continuing her work as a leader in the civic engagement field, Gretchen remains a trusted partner, advocate, and innovator. Whether working with students, faculty, or community partners, she brings empathy, vision, and a deep belief in the transformative power of education and service. Gretchen’s ongoing contributions make her a shining example of what it means to live the Bonner mission every day.

Gretchen is a dedicated, strategic and kind powerhouse. Since interning at the Foundation in 2005 while helping to launch the Bonner Program at Dickinson College, building and managing the program at Siena College, and serving as an Assistant Dean for Civic Engagement at Widener, she has championed Bonner and student engagement. She continues to find and apply best practices, including for democratic and political engagement, into her wide array of experiences, including social enterprise—Liz Brandt

Sustainability Coordinator

Iesha Baldwin, C'2019, is the inaugural sustainability coordinator at Spelman College and oversees campus-wide sustainability initiatives. With expertise in the UN Sustainable Development Goals, she collaborates with stakeholders to integrate sustainable practices into campus culture and operations. As a Bonner Scholar, she was a Sustainable Spelman Intern and a member of the Environmental Task Force. She has a deep passion to protect the environment and to create ways to effectively solve environmental issues. Iesha provides bold leadership in her role as sustainability coordinator. She has partnered with the Bonner Office of Civic Engagement to produce a report outlining how community engagement activities at Spelman support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. She is also leading Spelman College's participation as an observer campus during the pilot phase of the new Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability. Her experience working and volunteering has given her a well-rounded skill set to create solutions and to have a positive impact on a diverse range of communities.

“A person who has planted a tree before he dies has not lived in vain.” - African Proverb Thank you for the work that you are doing to transform generations and save our world—Felicia Deas

Senior Housing Associate

Jasmine Rangel truly embodies the spirit of “Living the Mission” through her continued dedication to the Bonner community. As a former Bonner Summer Intern and AmeriCorps Program Associate at the Bonner Foundation, Jasmine has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to service, social justice, and community building. Even after her formal roles ended, she has remained an active and generous presence in the network, volunteering her time and expertise to support events, mentor students, and uplift the work of others. Jasmine’s unwavering passion, humility, and reliability have made her a trusted partner and role model. Her continued service reflects the heart of the Bonner mission in action.

Program Manager

Jeniffer Gonzalez Reyes serves as the Program Manager at the Bonner Foundation, where she also oversees our growing efforts with communications and social media. Jen brings her deep experiences as a young person and Bonner Scholar, including at Guilford College and with mentors in North Carolina. Jen also draws on her experience directing the Bonner Program at Allegheny College.

Jen is driven, brilliant, and dedicated to the Bonner Program and Network. She brings a versatility to her work. Whether navigating from providing thoughtful guidance and mentorship to colleagues or developing systems and platforms for more effective programs and campus engagement, she consistently goes the extra mile—Ariane Hoy

Executive Director

Jonathan is a 2003 Bonner and University of Richmond alum. Jonathan demonstrated his dedication to the Bonner common commitments as a student and hasn’t stopped since then. In particular diversity and community building, Jonathan’s professional life has always centered the common commitments and connecting folks across difference. From his days with A More Perfect Union in Richmond to his time with the National Conference for Community and Justice in New Jersey to his return to Richmond and more than two decades with Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC), Jonathan’s important professional work reminds us all everyday that we truly are better together. From work with K-16 students to workshops with corporate employees to important community conversations, Jonathan steers an organization that has seen the demands for their support increase significantly in the wake of the COVID pandemic and racial unrest in 2020. While Jonathan has been a past recipient of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Award, the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award, the Leadership Metro Richmond Ukrop Community Vision Award, one of Richmond’s “Top 40 Under 40″ in 2009, and a finalist for the Richmond Times Dispatch’s 2015 Person of the Year, he is most often recognizing the efforts of others through VCIC’s impactful regional Humanitarian Awards. It is, therefore, extra special to have the opportunity to shine the light on Jonathan through this most-deserved nomination.

Thank you, Jonathan, for all you humbly offer Richmond and the state of Virginia. Our communities are better because you and VCIC are a part of them—Kim Dean-Anderson

Interpreter and Senior Bilingual Client Coordinator

Katherine Diaz Garcia embodies the spirit of the Bonner mission through her work as a community organizer in Richmond, Virginia. A Bonner alum from Centre College, Katherine is a passionate advocate for immigrant rights, racial justice, and grassroots empowerment. Her organizing centers the voices of those most impacted, building collective power to address systemic inequities. Whether leading campaigns, facilitating community forums, or mentoring young leaders, Katherine approaches every effort with humility, courage, and a deep commitment to justice. Katherine's ongoing dedication to building a more just and inclusive society reflects the core values of the Bonner Program. She is a powerful example of what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and community at the center.

Student Concern Case Manager

Leila Hunter, an Earlham College Bonner alumna, serves as a Student Concern Case Manager at Berea College. In her role supporting student well-being, she exemplifies the values of the Bonner Program through compassionate, mission-driven work.

Community Engagement Director

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

Shepherd Program Associate Director & Bonner Program Director and Instructor of Poverty Studies

Marisa Charley exemplifies “Living the Mission” through her lifelong dedication to service, education, and community. An Allegheny Bonner alum, Marisa continues to lead with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to equity. In every role she takes on—whether supporting students, teaching, collaborating with partners, or mentoring emerging leaders—Marisa brings the values of the Bonner Program to life. She consistently makes space to uplift others, embodying the balance of heart and action that defines true servant leadership. Marisa’s work and presence continue to inspire those around her and strengthen the Bonner network.

Matt Cummings, elected member of the Virginia School Board District and Bonner alumnus, is a dedicated leader who truly embodies the Bonner Living the Mission award. Building on the values and experiences gained as a Bonner Scholar, Matt has committed himself to advancing educational equity and community engagement through public service.

In his role on the school board, Matt advocates tirelessly for policies that promote access, inclusivity, and student success—especially for underserved populations. He brings a collaborative and student-centered approach to decision-making, ensuring that community voices are heard and that resources are directed to where they can have the greatest impact.

Matt’s journey from Bonner Scholar to elected official reflects a profound commitment to civic leadership and social justice. His work strengthens the connection between education and community well-being, aligning closely with the Bonner mission of nurturing servant leaders who create positive, lasting change.

Through his public service and advocacy, Matt Cummings exemplifies the power of Bonner alumni to live the mission beyond college and transform communities through engaged leadership.

Assistant Director of CELTS

Megan Martinez, a Berea College Bonner alumna, now serves as the CELTS Assistant Director at Berea College. We are thrilled to welcome her back in this new professional role, where she continues to live out the Bonner mission with energy and purpose.

Interim Associate Director of Residence Life

Melissa Wills, a Berea College Bonner alumna, serves as the Interim Associate Director of Residence Life at Berea College. Her continued dedication to student development and community building is a powerful reflection of the Bonner mission in action.

Bonner Leader and Service Coordinator

Mikaela embodies everything a Bonner alumna could aspire to be. As soon as she graduated, she served in AmeriCorps as a Service Coordinator here at Montclair State, finding new community partners and sustaining a strong relationship with them over the course of her years in that role. She also assisted countless students in finding pathways to serve their local communities while also helping them to understand the importance of completing meaningful service for their community based research classes. Once she transitioned into becoming the Bonner Leader and Service Coordinator, she used her creative thinking skills and passion for the program to take it to new heights. Mikaela hit the ground running, she fundraised thousands of dollars for the program between her first and second year as well as created the Community Action Coalition. This coalition connects the Bonner program to other student organizations and greek life on campus so that everyone can collaborate on events such as days of service and Connecting Across Cultures sessions, which have been a huge success with strong attendance numbers thanks to the coalition. This coalition was created based on the community building common commitment, which Mikaela has instilled a strong foundation of both within Montclair's Bonner Leader program and in our campus community. She leaves a positive B-love impact wherever she goes, whether it be taking Bonners to do service in other states during our alternative spring break or when tabling for campus or community events. I can't think of someone more deserving of this honor than her.

Mikaela, thank you for your hard work and dedication not only to the Bonner Leader Program and to the Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships. You are so deserving of this award and more—Sara Duricko

Bonner Coordinator

As the first Bonner alum serving in a professional role within the Concord University Bonner program, Peyton Brown-Lusk [Class of 2020] brings a wealth of practical experience and first-hand knowledge to her role as Coordinator. Having been through the program herself, served as a senior intern for multiple years, and spent two years as the Bonner House graduate assistant while completing her MSW degree, she has experience with all facets of our program. Peyton’s most engaging quality is a true passion for helping others and a willingness to give of her time, beyond what’s required of her job, to do meaningful work in our community. She serves as an exemplary role-model for our current scholars, providing them with an example of how impactful the Bonner program can be when a student takes full advantage of the opportunities for growth and development available to them. Peyton is a joy to work with and, as her colleague, I am incredibly grateful for her positive presence and influence within the Concord Bonner program.

Through her professional role within the Concord Bonner program, Peyton Brown-Lusk truly does live the mission of the Bonner program every day. She is a genuine ambassador for service, civic engagement and Bonner Love!—Kathy S. Ball.

Director of Government and Community Relations

It is with great pride that we nominate Raj Manimaran for the Living the Mission award. A former Bonner Scholar at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), Raj has carried the Bonner Foundation’s Common Commitments into every facet of his professional and personal life. For the past eight years, he has served the TCNJ community with integrity, purpose, and compassion—first as a Coordinator for Community-Engaged Learning and now as the Director of Government and Community Relations. In his current role, Raj is a tireless advocate for reciprocal, community-centered partnerships and uplifting the voices of those often unheard. His leadership ensures that institutional relationships with government and community partners are grounded in equity, trust, and shared goals. He is also an active community volunteer and board member for multiple local organizations, extending his impact well beyond campus. Raj’s service to TCNJ includes his elected role as Staff Representative on the Board of Trustees and as Chair of the Staff Senate’s Council for Action and Advocacy United for Social Justice & Equity (CAUSE), where he helps advance staff engagement in justice-oriented initiatives. He is also a dedicated supporter of TCNJ Votes, helping increase student civic engagement and voter participation. Through his unwavering commitment to civic engagement, community building, social justice, and equity, Raj truly lives the mission of the Bonner Program every day. His work and values embody the full spectrum of the Bonner Common Commitments, making him a model leader, colleague, and changemaker.

TCNJ Bonner Alum, Raj Manimaran lives the Bonner mission through his work and service at TCNJ and in the broader community. As Director of Government and Community Relations, he champions equity, civic engagement, and community voice. His leadership and volunteerism reflect the Bonner Common Commitments in action, making him a true changemaker—Brittany Aydelotte

President and Founder, More LIFE Foundation

Having grown up in rural McDowell County, West Virginia, one of the poorest counties in the Appalachian region, Trey Lockhart [Class of 2016] knows first-hand the challenges faced by young people in the area. After completion of pharmacy school in 2021, Trey turned his energy towards creating the More LIFE Foundation, “a nonprofit organization led by McDowell County citizens, designed to help our youth reach beyond limitations and achieve their dreams by building important personal and professional skills. More leadership, more inspiration, more fellowship, more encouragement!” The More LIFE Dreamers program operates within the two county high schools to target students for specific programming, including the arts, athletics, and community service. Alums from the Dreamers program are now Bonner scholars who’re returning to that program to fulfill their service obligations, creating a full circle of connections between our two programs within the community. In 2023 the Concord University Alumni Association recognized Trey’s outstanding contributions by awarding him the Young Alumnus of the Year Award.

Trey Lockhart is using his own life experiences and his own sense of place to identify needs within his home community. His impact on young people will ripple through the community for many years into the future—Kathy S. Ball.

Director of Local and Regional Partnerships & Programs for the Center for Civic Learning in Action

Samantha Ha DiMuzio, an Ursinus College Bonner alum, former Bonner Foundation summer intern, and former Program Associate, continues to live the mission through her leadership in civic and community engagement. After earning her doctorate, Sam now serves as Director of Local and Regional Partnerships & Programs at Dickinson College’s Center for Civic Learning & Action. In this role, she builds strong, reciprocal relationships between campus and community, fostering meaningful opportunities for student learning and community impact. Sam radiates kindness, empathetic leadership, and a deep commitment to justice—embodying the Bonner values in every aspect of her work. Her journey reflects the power of sustained civic engagement and the impact of leading with heart.

Bonner Coordinator

Sarah Young lives the Bonner mission daily through her work as the Bonner Program Coordinator at Allegheny College. A Bonner alum herself, Sarah brings deep empathy, commitment, and leadership to supporting students as they grow as changemakers in their communities. She mentors students with care and intention, helping them navigate college and community engagement with purpose and integrity. Sarah’s work strengthens partnerships, uplifts local voices, and ensures that service is both impactful and reciprocal. By continuing her Bonner journey in a professional role, Sarah embodies a life of service—grounded in values, driven by justice, and focused on cultivating the next generation of civic leaders.

Executive Director at the Congressional Hunger Center and Bonner Foundation Board of Trustees Member

Shannon Maynard, a University of Richmond Bonner alum, has built a remarkable career rooted in service, leadership, and social impact. Her journey from a Bonner Scholar to a nationally respected leader exemplifies what it means to live the mission. Shannon currently serves on the Bonner Foundation Board of Trustees, where she continues to shape the future of the program that helped launch her own path. With a career spanning nonprofit leadership and public service, Shannon has held roles that reflect her deep commitment to equity and civic engagement. She serves as Executive Director of the Congressional Hunger Center and has worked extensively to develop leadership pipelines for emerging changemakers. As a trustee, Shannon brings not only strategic insight but also a passion for nurturing the next generation of Bonner leaders. Her service is a testament to the long-term power of the Bonner model and the profound impact alumni can have when they carry its values into their professional lives.

Operations Manager

Sophia Lombardo has continued to live the mission through her roles as a Earlham College Bonner alum, former national Bonner Foundation summer intern, and former Bonner coordinator at Centre College. Sophia is committed to creating change in her local community and embodies Bonner values in every facet of her personal and professional life. Her dedication to fostering connection and empowering others makes her a true embodiment of the Bonner spirit.

ELL Teacher

El Colegio is a charter school with a focus on community-building & social justice. The staff is fully bilingual and are recognized locally and nationally for improving achievement for Latino students. Steve has served as a ELL teacher since shortly after graduating as a Bonner from Macalester in 2014.

Research Analyst

As a 2012 graduate of our inaugural class of Bonners, Tan’s insight as a student was pivotal in shaping Bonner at Macalester. She is the epitome of B-Love before it was a thing! Tan founded and has served as an executive director and artist for Giving + Art Program since 2015.

Portfolio Manager

Tim Krumreig has spent the past decade championing the role of higher education in advancing community-driven change. His journey began as a Bonner Scholar at Oberlin College, where he discovered his passion for service, and continued with three terms as an AmeriCorps VISTA member and leader at Massachusetts Campus Compact. Since then, Tim has dedicated his career to strengthening partnerships between campuses and communities. He has served as a Program Manager at Campus Compact, supporting VISTA programming across Southern New England, and later as Assistant Director of Community Service Programs at Northeastern University, where he led volunteer initiatives and a nationally recognized Alternative Spring Break program. As a Portfolio Manager with AmeriCorps in the Mid-Atlantic Region, Tim supports grant recipients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, helping to sustain impactful, equity-focused service programs. With a Master’s in Higher Education from Northeastern, Tim brings a thoughtful, systems-oriented approach to his work—always grounded in the Bonner values of community, justice, and opportunity. Whether mentoring students or managing regional partnerships, Tim continues to live the mission with purpose, humility, and a love of learning (and coffee).

President of the George Gund Foundation and Bonner Foundation Board Member

Tony Richardson exemplifies a life of service and living the mission through his leadership in government, education, and philanthropy. An Oberlin College Bonner alumnus, he now serves as President of The George Gund Foundation, advancing racial equity and community well-being. From being one of the youngest elected officials in Lorain, Ohio, to leading education reform as chair of the Lorain Academic Distress Commission, Tony has consistently championed inclusive policies. His work in philanthropy, recognized by Philanthropy Ohio and national outlets, continues to uplift marginalized communities. As board chair of Funders Together to End Homelessness and The Center for Effective Philanthropy, and a trustee of the Bonner Foundation, Tony embodies the Bonner mission of using leadership for lasting impact.

Bonner Assistant Director

Yayi Sonnabend, a Bonner alum from Lindsey Wilson College, now serves as the Bonner Assistant Director at her alma mater—bringing her journey full circle. As a student, Yayi exemplified the Bonner spirit through her dedication to service and community-building. Today, she mentors a new generation of Bonner Scholars with the same passion, empathy, and commitment that defined her own experience. In her professional role, Yayi fosters a culture of inclusion, reflection, and purposeful engagement, helping students grow as changemakers both on campus and beyond. Her leadership is a testament to the enduring impact of the Bonner Program and the powerful ways alumni continue to live the mission.