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California State University, Stanislaus

California State University, Stanislaus alumna and longstanding employee Wanda Bonnell created an enduring legacy at the university by founding the Promise Scholars program in 2006. The program serves as a testament to her commitment to supporting foster and emancipated youths in their pursuit of higher education.

A first-generation college graduate, Ms. Bonnell earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1995 and master’s degree in education in 2010. She worked at the university for 24 years until she retired in 2017. The innovative Promise Scholars program has transformed the lives of foster and emancipated youths by providing intensive and highly personalized academic and social support to help them succeed in college. Her pioneering work will change not only individual lives, but also will have a lasting influence on families and communities for generations.

Ms. Bonnell continues to exemplify leadership and service. She takes an active role in numerous community organizations, serving as a senior fellow of the American Leadership Forum and president of the Modesto/Turlock chapter of the American Association of University Women.

In recognition of her commitment to supporting underserved scholars throughout her career, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Stanislaus are proud to confer upon Wanda Bonnell the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.