Adrienne Tharp, assistant dean of student development, was recently named a recipient of the Lives of Service Award by the Bonner Foundation.
The Lives of Service award recognizes those who have dedicated decades of their lives to the work of the Bonner Foundation, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025. Tharp was presented with the award at the 2025 Bonner Summer Leadership Institute in June, where more than 450 attendees gathered at the University of Richmond.
"The annual meeting is always exciting to connect with others from across the network," said Tharp. "This year was really special to be recognized with a number of my colleagues for our contributions made to the Bonner Program."
Tharp embodies a life of service through her leadership of the Bonner Scholars Program and the Center for Service Leadership. Guiding more than 60 students annually, she fosters transformative experiences that blend academic learning with meaningful community engagement. Her initiatives include organizing service trips to Pittsburgh, where students engage with organizations addressing urban poverty, and leading local projects with Greene County Habitat for Humanity.
Grace Deep worked with Tharp as a student and now appreciates the opportunity to work side-by-side with her as Waynesburg University's Bonner program coordinator.
"To be able to work alongside Adrienne has been such an honor not only personally but also professionally," said Deep. "She has been described by many as the glue that holds our puzzle together. She puts her heart and soul into everything she has done from the big things to even the small."
Tharp also champions mental health awareness by coordinating the annual Out of the Darkness Campus Walk, uniting the campus and community in support of suicide prevention. Through her dedication, Tharp cultivates a culture of empathy, leadership and lifelong commitment to service among students.
Deep said that Bonner students know that they can always count on Tharp.
"Our Bonners adore her," said Deep. "They seek her out for her words of wisdom, encouragement and advice."
"All of us in higher education wear many hats; but I have always said the Bonner Program one is my favorite," said Tharp. "I get to watch students on an incredible, unique journey while at Waynesburg but also get to be part of this larger network of others doing the same thing. I am grateful to experience the legacy that Mr. and Mrs. Bonner have created."
About the Bonner Scholarship Program
We're proud to be one of only 21 universities in the country to offer the prestigious Bonner Scholarship Program.
With support from the Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation, this unique scholarship opportunity offers selected students financial assistance in return for a commitment to service while enrolled at Waynesburg.
About the Bonner Foundation
Through sustained partnerships with colleges and congregations, the Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation seeks to improve the lives of individuals and communities by helping meet the basic needs of nutrition and educational opportunity.
