 About
the Bonner Program
In 1991 Ferrum College was among a select group of colleges chosen as
charter members of the Bonner Scholars Program, which was established
by the Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation, Inc. of Princeton,
New Jersey. This unique scholarship and service opportunity provides
qualified students with financial assistance and the opportunity to
continue their involvement in community service activities throughout
their college years, and beyond.
The Bonner Program is a natural at Ferrum College, which exemplifies
commitment to service through the College’s motto, “Not Self, But Others.”
The
Bonner Foundation has set forth the following goals:
-
To identify worthy and qualified students who are in need of financial
assistance;
- To
enable students to serve others;
- To
provide students with academic support and enrichment activities;
- To
encourage students to complete their undergraduate education and earn
their degree.
At
Ferrum College the Bonner Program offers two elements, Bonner Scholars
and Bonner Leaders. Each element contributes to a significant difference
in the lives of individuals in the local community. The requirements
for the two branches are slightly different and are listed below:
Bonner
Scholars
• Entire documented need met through grants, scholarships, and loans
including a $2100 stipend each year
• $1600 in loan reduction money from the Bonner Foundation upon completion
of four years in the program
• 10 hours of service per week required
• Two summers of service required with compensation of up to $2,500
• First Year Service Trip required – organized by Ferrum with student
input, financed by Ferrum College and the Bonner Foundation
• Second Year Service Exchange – usually a weekend service trip, planned
and financed by Ferrum College and the Bonner Foundation
• Bonner service sites double as work study site if eligible
Bonner
Leaders
• Work/study stipend of up to $2,000 each year, per financial aid
award
• 10-12 hours of service per week required
• Service site hours double for Bonner requirements and work/study
award
• One summer of service required, with compensation of at least $2,000
• First Year Service Trip – organized by Ferrum with student input,
financed by Ferrum College and the Bonner Foundation
• Second Year Service Exchange – usually a weekend service trip, planned
and financed by Ferrum College and the Bonner Foundation
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•
Academic admissions requirements of Ferrum College;
• Graduate in the top 40% of their high school class. (Exceptions
may be made on an individual basis, including exceptions for Bonner
students who have earned a Graduate Equivalency Degree (GED);
• Demonstrate a commitment to making connections between their community
service activities and academic life;
• Demonstrate that they have held at least one role with significant
responsibility in their community, in church, at school, or at home;
• Meet designated financial need as determined by the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form and financial requirements of
the Bonner Foundation.
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