Week of November 10, 2008

This week, I did not get to work in the Bonner office on Monday. I took part in UofL's Graduate Visitation program. I am really beginning to contemplate my future and where I want to be in ten years. This is a huge decision, and I don't feel ready. I do know that I will remain active in service-centered organizations no matter what program I choose. Camp Casey was fun this week. The kids were interacting with each other really well. There is one little boy, who I have seen get in trouble numerous times. He often sits away from most of the kids and my heart really goes out to him. I took some extra time this week to help him with the lego engineering project. The smile on his face when he saw his creation work was worth everything. If I make a difference to one child in the least bit, then I am satisfied with the work I am doing. That is one of the main reasons I am so dedicated to continue my work at Camp Casey.

Week of November 3, 2008

This week I did a few hours in the Bonner office. Tuesday was huge day in the history of our Nation. I was glad to see that many people actually went to the polls to cast their votes. I strongly believe it is our duty as US citizens to take part in electing the leader of our free country. Now that we know who our next president will be, I think we should support him despite whether our vote was for him or not. My work with Bonner has instilled within me, a passion for civic engagement, service, and so much more. I want to encourage those around me to take part in making a change for whatever they stand for.

Wednesday night was the Oxfam Hunger Banquet. Students on campus were presented with information that brought them face to face with hunger issues on a global perspective, as well as hunger in our own state. I think the banquet is a great way to raise awareness about this issue and encourage people to help. It is sad that every man, woman, and child could be fed with the resources on earth, yet many die of starvation.

Week of October 27, 2008

I spoke to Amy's Freshman Seminar class on Monday about preparations for the Hunger Banquet. It was obvious to me that this was not something that ll of the students were passionate about. To me, that says that we all have to explore various ideas and participate in things that allow us to find what issue is most intriguing to us as individuals, and then focus on the work that needs to be done with regard to that issue. Tuesday night was the political debate. It was interesting to see the representatives from both parties, express their view of the election and what issues they thought would be a major deciding factor in this years presidential race. Both has strong and weak points, but it was interesting to say the least.

Week of October 20, 2008

Well, it seems as if the semester is flying by. So much to do, so little time. I did some work in the Bonner office this week. It is always uplifting to chat with Amy, Cherise, and other Bonner's, and get a few laughs in. They seem to make me smile when I need it most. I am bummed that I will not get to attend the Changing our World Conference. I was excited about seeing what other Bonner Programs are doing and getting to network with Bonner Leaders/Scholars from other schools. But, with my future in mind, I will be attending Open House for a graduate program at UK. I am meeting with Holli later this week to plan for the Hunger Banquet. Last year's banquet was exciting, and I hope this year will be equally rewarding. I think the program really expresses the need for us to be active locally, nationally, and globally.

Week of October 13, 2008

FALL BREAK!

Week of October 6, 2008

This week was a relaxed week. I did some work in the Bonner office, but did not get to work at Camp Casey this week due to Adair County Schools fall break. I did attend an event that was part of LWC's art and lecture series: The Struggle for Civil Rights, Peace, and Justice. It was interesting to hear the speakers point of view on issues which he was passionate about. There were things that I agreed with, as well as those that I disagreed with. However, I admired his firmness and dedication to stand up and speak out on issues that he stood for. If everyone was serious about raising awareness and attempting to change what they did not deem appropriate, I can only imagine what magnificent changes would take place around us. As a Bonner, I hope to raise awareness on issues that I am personally intrigued by, and encourage others to become civically engaged, and active.

Week of September 29, 2008

This week has really flown by. Friday, November 3, I was privileged to speak to the spouses of the Trustee's at the President's home. Cherise and I shared about our experiences at Lindsey Wilson College, and our participation in the Bonner Leader Program. This opportunity really made me think about how much I love being part of this program, and everything that it stands for. I believe we all have a duty to give back to the communities in which we live, work, or attend school. I think the spouses got to see how much that students appreciate their families generosity in supporting the college and allowing us to receive a top notch education, while participating in activities and organizations that allow us to express what we are passionate about. The Bonner Program is everything I though it would be, and I hope that I can be an encouragement to others to become active citizens and engage in service opporunities.

Week of September 22nd

The week started off dull to say the least, but Malvina Farkle Day offered a much needed break from homework and studying. I always enjoy taking to time to give back to the community, whether it be in my hometown, or here at school. I worked at the Family Resource Center, where I helped repaint their deck. The family resource center has many beneficial opportunities available to families in Adair County. We were told that the Center was eligible for an award. I enjoyed aiding the Center in preparing to welcome those who utilize their services. It is wonderful to see these types of activities availble. Friday, I worked at Camp Casey, and the children there always brighten my day. It is always entertaining to hear the kids explain the world as it is seen through their eyes.

There was a quote that i read this week, and I would like to share that:

"La vida es una promesa; cumplela."
"Life is a promise; fulfill it." - Mother Teresa

Week of Septmeber 15, 2008

During September 20-21, I had the opportunity to return as a volunteer at the Center for Courageous Kids. As always, the experience was gratifying and rewarding. It is so awesome to escape reality and attempt to make a difference in the lives of children who are often forgotten by mass society. It was spina bifida week, which was a group of children, who I had never worked with before. Through arts and crafts, I formed friendships with many of the children at camp and their families. Camp was as equally rewarding for the families, as the children themselves. Tears flowed as families packed their belongings to head home. I look forward to returning to the center very soon.

A New Year!

It is hard to believe that this is my senior year. I am overwhelmed with emotion as I reflect on how I have changed over the past three years at LWC, and as I contemplate the future. There have been so many great opportunities during college, and I am thankful for each one. I have enjoyed being active in various clubs and organizations on campus, but Bonner tops the list.

Being part of Bonner Leaders has been and incredible and enriching experience. I have grown and matured in areas that I had not anticipated. I have developed and even deeper passion for community involvement, and giving back to those around me. I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing people at Camp Casey, the Center for Courageous Kids, and others.

I hope that all of the new Bonner's will come to realize what an incredible organization that they are now a part of, and stick with it. It really has been a life-changing experience. I am excited to see what the year holds for the Bonner Leader's at L-Dub and getting to know everyone on a more personal level.