St. Bonaventure University

Bonnies in the Spotlight


The CPRC's Bonnies in the Spotlight program recognizes St. Bonaventure students who have developed significant professional skills through a quality experience.

The program serves to recognize these students, but also to motivate other to seek out similar opportunities.

Students apply to the program by completing an application that requires detailed articulation of their experience. Selection of the finalists is very competitive.

Meet Our Latest Bonnies in the Spotlight Finalists



Kelly Barnes3
Kelly Barnes
Major: Accounting & Finance
Minor: 
Psychology 
Organization: 
Derrick Corporation
Title: 
Accounting Intern

Interning in the Accounting Department at a mid-sized family-owned manufacturing company was an incredible opportunity to obtain relevant experience and skills that I would have not had the opportunity to get otherwise. At Derrick, I was mainly in the Accounts Receivables Department,  working on billing, collections, cash receipts, shipping, collecting customer information, and analyzing payment terms and conditions. I enhanced my time management and communication skills, and my overall professionalism.”


Kishan Patel
Kishan Patel
Major: Biology
Organization: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Title: Undergraduate Research Intern

During my time at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine Summer Undergraduate Experience, I developed essential skills that will benefit me in my future medical career and studies. My research on tuberculosis enhanced my laboratory and analytical skills and understanding of bacterial genetics and phenotypic characterization. Additionally, collaborating with experienced researchers and peers improved my teamwork and communication skills, preparing me for the collaborative nature of the medical field.



Shannon Heinig
Shannon Heinig
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Mathematics
Organization: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Title: Summer Undergraduate Research Program Student

I was a Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) student at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Graduate Studies. In Dr. Timothy Burns’ Lab, I spent 10 weeks analyzing determinants of RAS GTP hydrolysis for potential cancer therapies. The program also provided professional development seminars on networking and personal statement writing. Weekly presentations improved my science communication skills. This experience in a graduate laboratory was invaluable on my path to graduate school.


Connor Raine3
Connor Raine
Major: Sports Management & Marketing 
Organization: Nashville Predators
Title: Community Relations Intern

My Predators Community Relations internship was transformative. I visited grant recipients, organized events for underprivileged kids, and experienced the positive impact of professional sports.I also worked at events like the NHL Draft & Awards, UFC Fight Night, and more. Being part of the Predators SC-101 program provided me with valuable experiences for my future career in professional sports. Go Preds!


Sarah Owens
Sarah Owens
Major: Master of Business Administration
Organization: Bishop Mackenzie International School
Title: Volunteer Teacher

Volunteering in Lilongwe, Malawi, was truly transformative. It enriched my adaptability, cultural understanding and empathy. Juggling diverse tasks honed my time management, prioritization and organization skills. Interacting with people from different backgrounds improved my communication skills, professionalism, and interpersonal bonds. The warm welcome from the Malawian community taught me invaluable life skills and broadened my perspective.


Richard Williams
Rich Williams
Major: Broadcast Journalism
Organization: WKBW Channel 7, Buffalo
Title: Newsroom Intern

I’ve been with SBU-TV since my freshman year, serving as executive producer for two years. I’ve covered various news stories, learned to produce quality morning newscasts, and gained valuable experience during a summer internship at WKBW Channel 7. My time at St. Bonaventure has equipped me with strong leadership, production, and on-air skills in the broadcast industry.”