The Bonner Community Leaders Program at Simmons University is a unique opportunity for students who want to combine a strong commitment to service with personal growth, teamwork, leadership development, and scholarship. Since its inaugural year at Simmons in 2022, Bonner Leaders have worked with Fenway Health, Dana Farber, Massachusetts National Organization for Women, Girls LEAP, Massachusetts Peace Action, the Boston House, and Orchard Gardens K-8 school. This academic year, Simmons announced a new cohort of 9 Bonner Leaders. We spoke with Ellie Foss ’28, Jocelyn Miranda Landaverde ’28, Bridget Swezey ’28, and Soraya Timas ’28 about what drew them to the Bonner program.
Ellie Foss ’28
Major: Nursing
“I am so excited to be a part of Bonner this year! The Bonner program is very special to me, and caught my eye because I am incredibly passionate about fighting for injustices and learning more about my community! I am incredibly honored to be a part of this program and cannot wait to meet new people and hopefully make a difference!”
Jocelyn Miranda Landaverde ’28
Major: Health and Exercise Science
“I take immense pride in my culture and roots as a first-generation Latina woman, and I place considerable value on continuing my post-secondary education. Growing up in Somerville, a city rich in diverse cultures and backgrounds, has shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for community engagement. The Bonner program drew me in because of its commitment to social justice and community service, aligning perfectly with my desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Through my participation in the Bonner program, I hope to develop my leadership skills and deepen my understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. I aspire to create initiatives that empower individuals and foster inclusivity, ultimately contributing to a more equitable society. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers and mentors who share my vision for positive change.”
Bridget Swezey ’28
Major: Social Work
“I’m extremely fortunate to represent the Bonner program here at Simmons. I’m local to Boston, coming from Plainville, Massachusetts, and I am a social work major. As a freshman in college, this time is critical for students to navigate academics, social relationships, and being independent. While feeling apprehensive, to say the least, being embraced with open arms by the Bonner community left me feeling optimistic in this new environment.
Why was I drawn to the Bonner program? My answer is immense. I’ve witnessed firsthand how exchanges of kindness continue to resonate past your immediate intentions. I firmly believe everyone can leave a place better than you found it. Coming from a low-income household and being raised in a “not-so-typical” family dynamic, I believe how individuals take action in situations divergent from their own speaks volumes. Embracing uncomfortable circumstances is a testament to the future, and standing alongside partners for guidance is a pleasure for us as students.
I watch in awe of fierce women who refuse to minimize their voices and who radiate their passions. I have fantasized about the way these women embrace their communities with flawless elegance while standing assertive. Hearing of the Bonner program at Simmons sparked hope for an adjacent narrative. Throughout my time in Bonner, I hope to concentrate on feminism and the LGBTQ+ experience in the Boston community. Young women should be taught what seems like ‘reaches’ aren’t as far as they seem, and they all should love the person they see in the mirror.”
Soraya Timas ’28
Major: Social Work, Accelerated 3+1 (BSW & MSW)
“I was attracted to Bonner because of its social justice and service aspects. I have been involved with Girls’ LEAP for many years, and I have always known that I wanted to be a social worker, so that has always been close to my heart. Teaching self-defense to youth in Boston gave me a sense of purpose because I knew that I was empowering young girls and non-binary youth in the communities that I grew up in.
As a former teen mentor with Girls’ LEAP, I served as an advocate and mentor to youth, and as a Bonner, I hope to build those skills and use my education in social work to help me do so as I work with my Bonner community and community partner. I chose Simmons because I knew I would be able to grow as a leader and be in an environment where I knew I would be supported.”