Neyssa Deriphonse '2024

Major: Public Health

Learn More About Me

My Hometown

Irvington, NJ

Bonner Site

Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) and Streetlight

Why Bonner?

I decided to participate in the Bonner program due to the vast and unique opportunities offered to students. Back in high school, I used to volunteer at the Bridge Imani Center participating in various volunteering events, which shaped my understanding on the real world outside my family bubble. From this experience, volunteering became a central part of my life and the Bible verse in Acts 20 "it is more blessed to give than to receive" quickly became my motto. I live to be a blessing in the life of others, even through small gestures. With Bonner, I can humbly say that I felt blessed to give my time, skills, and commitment to those in need of them. I had the opportunity to serve a diverse population who appreciate my knowledge and skills during my time at TASK and Streetlight.

Favorite TCNJ Bonner Memory

My favorite memory as a Bonner was our trip to Greenville, South Carolina, which left me deeply inspired and motivated for change. I was moved by the leadership and dedication that transformed the Northside community in less than 15 years. Once known for high crime rates, the Northside community recognized the need for a new direction and committed to it. Through redevelopment efforts, they invested in affordable housing for current residents and created a supportive, thriving environment centered around a newly built community center. Their story of change gives me hope that such transformation can happen in my own community as well, and I am determined to spearhead this movement.