The Bonner Program

The Bonner Program

The Bonner Program is a unique leadership development program for students with an interest in service and social responsibility. 

The Bonner Program is offered through W&L’s Shepherd Department which works to understand and address the causes and consequences of poverty and inequality in ways that respect the dignity of every person. Students are given a framework to be involved in community service while receiving financial support. 

In addition to the financial support through federal work study, there are ample benefits in terms of leadership development, professional development, and intentional connections between academic and community engagement. Our students generally have some of the most robust resumes among recent graduates.

The Setting

W&L is located into the Shenandoah Valley in Lexington, Virginia. Our campus is surrounded by the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountain ranges. We are just a few hours drive from major cities, including Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia.

The Experience

The Bonner Program at Washington and Lee is one college chapter out of more than 67 colleges and universities within the wider, national Bonner Foundation. Bonners are expected to participate in the Program all four years at W&L, completing 1800-hours of service and leadership training.

The People

Our students are the Bonner Program. Learn about who we are.

Community Partners

W&L Bonner Scholars work on site based teams with our Community Partners. These Partners work closely with their Bonners providing professional development and increasing levels of responsibility over their four years together.

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