Community Service
Beyond the Classroom
The Bonner Scholar Program is a vehicle allowing students to dedicate themselves not only to service, but to making connections between community experiences and academic pursuits. The program is designed to identify qualified, service-oriented students and provide financial assistance commensurate to student need as defined by the Estimated Family contribution (EFC) on the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). This enables selected students to serve others, while receiving leadership development training, academic support and enrichment opportunities to encourage their success at Spelman and completion of requirements to earn their college degrees.
The program provides a structured developmental progression to encourage students to develop leadership ability and expertise that can be applied to a chosen career path. A student who takes part in the Bonner Scholar Program must be willing and able to make a significant commitment to service and community engagement throughout their college career. Bonner Scholars commit to carry out an average of 10 hours of service per week during the school year for four years, perform at least two full-time summers of service, and participate in trainings and meetings as required. In return, students receive individualized financial aid to help with college expenses and a network of support.
The program provides a structured developmental progression to encourage students to develop leadership ability and expertise that can be applied to a chosen career path. A student who takes part in the Bonner Scholar Program must be willing and able to make a significant commitment to service and community engagement throughout their college career. Bonner Scholars commit to carry out an average of 10 hours of service per week during the school year for four years, perform at least two full-time summers of service, and participate in trainings and meetings as required. In return, students receive individualized financial aid to help with college expenses and a network of support.