TCNJ Bonners usher in the spring semester with a productive orientation

The Bonner Center at the College of New Jersey is revving up for another successful semester after an engaging orientation last Saturday. The orientation, which set the tone for an effective semester of service, focused on site team goals, upcoming projects, inspiration for underclassmen and the importance of legacy and inspiration for upperclassmen. “In the three years of being a Bonner, this was the best orientation I’ve been to yet,” said Teresa Couto, Bonner Scholar ’12. “As far as orientation goes, I thought the day had a lot of positive energy, and that it was great to see everyone again,” said Katherine Kahn, Bonner Scholar ’15. The orientation took place in the Building Business Lounge and was attended initially by all Bonner Scholars. From 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM freshmen and sophomores worked on crafting their own marks in the program and the community at large. Following this, all Bonner Scholars participated in a review of the last year, workshops, refreshers on Community Engaged Learning days and upcoming important events and activities. The Bonner juniors and seniors were also granted a space, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM to reflect on their legacies and accomplishments. They also participated in a helpful resume-building workshop. Time was also set aside for individual site teams to meet and discuss their plans for the semester. “I thought that the Bonner orientation was very motivational,” Caitlin Dolan, Bonner Scholar ’12 said. “Pat [Donohue]’s speech about sometimes getting into a ‘rut’ where the motivation seems to be lacking inspired me to never give up on my journey to success.” The Bonner Scholars were also able to discuss with one another and the staff any concerns or issues they had and how to resolve them. “I thought it was straight to the point. It took on some issues that we’ve had straightforward,” Couto said. “There was no sugar-coating and I think it made the message that much clearer and had a stronger point. It addressed the seriousness that people do what they’re supposed to do because this isn’t just an ordinary organization. We’re supposed to go above and beyond.” “When Pat spoke… it really got me motivated again,” Billy Lamberti, Bonner Scholar ’15 said. “Every time he speaks, I feel as if he is addressing my concerns, personal dilemmas.” Upcoming events that the Bonner Center is planning for this semester include the “Human Abilities Unplugged” colloquium and the annual Youth Development Hoop Skills event. Please check back to the Bonner official website to learn more about the successful and civic projects and activities the Bonner program is planning and co-sponsoring.

Bonner Community Scholars Corps

The Bonner Community Scholars are a diverse group of 70 students who share a common desire and commitment—to spend four years working together with faculty, staff and non profit partners to address the unmet needs of the local community. The students in this scholarship-based leadership program are currently organized into 11 different issue-based teams.

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Community Engaged Learning

TCNJ's Community Engaged Learning (CEL) Program requires each first-year student to participate in at least one meaningful experience that blends learning and service during their initial fall or spring semester. This initial exerience includes a curricular and co-curricular track and paves the way for students to stay engaged throughout their undergraduate years.

Class-Based Projects

The Bonner Center works directly with professors to shape and support courses that encourage community engagement along with academic rigor. Dozens of First Seminar Program (FSP) classes and upper level courses enrich the learning experience while building the capacity of grass roots organizations to improve the quality of life in the region.