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 organizations throughout Boston and beyond. This academic year, Simmons announced a new cohort of Bonner Leaders including Ammy A. Cardenes Santana ’29, Gulsah Cayan ’29, Lily-Rose O’Brien ’29, and Mackenzie Oprea ’29. We spoke to each of them about what drew them to the Bonner program.
Ammy A. Cardenes Santana ’29
Major: Psychology
“I’m a bubbly and outgoing person who loves connecting with people and being involved in my community. Being a big sister, I’ve always naturally stepped into leadership roles, whether that’s helping others, speaking up, or taking initiative when something needs to get done. Being there for people and making a positive impact is really important to me, and I enjoy opportunities that allow me to grow while also giving back.
I was drawn to the Bonner Program because it combines community service with leadership, both of which I’m genuinely passionate about. I love the idea of being hands-on in my community and learning alongside other motivated students. Being part of Bonner would help me grow as a leader, gain meaningful experience, and continue developing skills that I can carry with me beyond college.”
Gulsah Cayan ’29
Major: Biology, Pre-Med track
“I was raised in Belchertown, Massachusetts, as the child of Muslim Turkish immigrants who worked tirelessly to establish a life in this country. Being the first in my family to attend college has highlighted the significance of support and empathy for families like mine, inspiring me to advocate for those who often go unnoticed. The resilience of my parents and the sacrifices they made fuel my passion for immigration, social justice, and empowering communities that are frequently disregarded.
I am pursuing a biology major on the pre-med track, and I am committed to ensuring my future involves making a genuine impact on people's lives. This is why the Bonner Leader Program is so important to me. I aspire to engage deeply with the community, particularly with groups that assist immigrant families, and to develop into an advocate who approaches issues with compassion and determination. Eventually, I aim for my efforts — both during my time with Bonner and later as a physician — to embody the principles instilled in me by my parents and to contribute to making life a bit easier for those experiencing challenges similar to what they once faced.”
Lily-Rose O’Brien ’29
Major: Nursing
“Growing up in foster care made me determined to become a steady, reliable presence for others. Those experiences taught me the importance of being truly heard, and they shaped my desire to support people through the kinds of hardships I understand firsthand.
I chose the Bonner Leader Program because of its dedication to community engagement, equity, and meaningful service. The program aligns deeply with my hopes of creating spaces where people feel seen and valued. Through Bonner, I hope to develop my leadership skills, strengthen my understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities, and contribute to work that uplifts youth and families. I want to be someone who listens and shows up for others, especially during moments when it matters most.”
Mackenzie Oprea ’29
Major: Social Work
“Working with children has always been an important part of my life — I began supporting children in my community at age 10, and those early experiences shaped my passion for helping others. As a social work major, I’m committed to uplifting underserved populations and advocating for social justice.
I was drawn to the Bonner Program because service has always grounded me. In high school, I served as president of my school’s Key Club and revitalized a chapter of Becca’s Closet, a nonprofit that provides free prom dresses to students in need. These experiences showed me the power of community work and strengthened my desire to continue serving in ways that align with my future goals in social work. Through Bonner, I hope to grow as a leader, work closely with communities that I hold dear, and make a meaningful difference.”