When Alexis Leco first joined the Bonner Leader Program through IU Indianapolis' Service Learning and Civic Engagement Curricular Initiative, she had no idea how much the experience would change her perspective. Leco, a senior majoring in health sciences and on the pre-med track, quickly realized that her involvement wasn’t just about completing projects—it was about building relationships, finding purpose, and making a tangible impact on both herself and her community. “My experience with Bonner Leaders has been enlightening,” Leco said. “I’ve worked on a variety of projects, from making blankets for children in need to organizing overdose kits, cleaning up the White River, and helping at the zoo. Every project made a difference, whether it was comforting a child or promoting harm reduction, and it all helped me grow.” Through her community work, Leco discovered the deeper value of engaged learning. These hands-on experiences connected her academic knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility at IU Indianapolis.
