More than 350 students, administrators, alumni, and community engagement professionals from over 60 colleges and universities gathered at Rutgers University–New Brunswick from June 7–10 for the 2026 Bonner Summer Leadership Institute (SLI). At a moment when the nation is approaching the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, participants came together to examine the role of higher education, civic engagement, and democratic participation in shaping a more just and equitable future.
Centered on the theme Bonner on the Banks: United in Purpose, Navigating the Currents of Change, this year's Institute invited attendees to reflect on the forces shaping higher education, communities, and democracy—and to consider how shared values can guide meaningful action in times of uncertainty. Throughout the week, participants explored strategies for strengthening partnerships, advancing civic learning, and cultivating leadership that creates lasting impact.
Opening welcome remarks by Liz Brandt
A cornerstone of the conference was the opening plenary, The Democracy We Need: 250 Years Later, featuring Nick Longo, Director of the Rutgers Democracy Lab; Arielle Del Rosario, Associate Director at Project Pericles and Rutgers Bonner alum; and Christopher Godoy, Bonner Leader and Student Government Association President at Rutgers–New Brunswick. Facilitated by Liz Brandt, Director of Community Engagement at the Bonner Foundation, the conversation challenged attendees to consider what democracy requires today and how colleges and universities can help prepare students to meet that challenge.
"What stood out to me most was hearing different perspectives on not only the last 250 years of democracy, but also what its future can look like with us a part of it," shared Jennifer Levy, Bonner Civic Scholar and Student Government Association Vice President at Rutgers University–Camden. "While the panelists' viewpoints differed, their discussion demonstrated the importance of dialogue. It reminded me that collective change is possible when we come together, learn from one another, and work toward a common goal."
Bonner Alum, Halle Gensler representing NAMI during the networking fair.
Across more than 30 workshops, strategy sessions, and place-based learning experiences, participants engaged with topics including civic engagement, student leadership, social innovation, ethical storytelling, faculty partnerships, fundraising, career development, and community-engaged learning. Sessions were led by students, alumni, campus leaders, and national partners, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, share promising practices, and build connections across the Bonner Network.
Professional development and networking remained central to the SLI experience. Attendees connected with 40 graduate school and nonprofit partners during the Networking Fair, explored scholarship and career pathways, participated in resume coaching, and learned from Bonner alumni representing a wide range of professions and sectors.
Beyond the formal program, SLI fostered the relationships that have long distinguished the Bonner community. Through social events, informal conversations, and collaborative learning, participants strengthened bonds across campuses and generations of Bonner leaders, reinforcing a shared commitment to service, civic engagement, and social change.
Bonner obstacle corse team challenge
Bonners playing badminton
Spoken words performed at the No Talent, Talent Show
As participants returned to their campuses, they carried with them new ideas, practical tools, and a renewed sense of purpose. The 2026 Summer Leadership Institute served as a powerful reminder that while the challenges facing our communities are complex, meaningful change is possible when we come together, learn from one another, and lead with intention.
Presentation materials, resources, and the full conference program are available on the Bonner Wiki. Thank you to the many presenters, partners, volunteers, and attendees whose contributions made the 2026 Summer Leadership Institute such a meaningful and inspiring experience.