Community Engagement Opportunities For Students
Public Service Programs
The Montclair State University Public Service Programs offer meaningful opportunities for every student to engage with the community, develop leadership skills, and explore careers in service.
Whether you're looking for a one-time volunteer experience through the Volunteer Center, ongoing community engagement, or a multi-year leadership program like the Bonner Leader Program and Next Generation Service Corps, there's a pathway for you. From service events and civic engagement to internships, alternative breaks, and professional development, our programs empower students to learn, lead, and create positive change—on campus, in our communities, and beyond.
Community-Engaged Learning
Community-Engaged Learning links academic study to real-world experiences in community settings. If you are interested in integrating community-engaged learning into your course of study, Montclair offers a number of excellent community engagement programs that help you get the most out of your time here.
Need more information? Please contact Mikaela Guzman at guzmanm@montclair.edu
Bonner Leader Program
The Bonner Leader Program challenges and supports students to take their passion for community service and continue to provide service throughout college. – “Access to education is an opportunity to serve.” Prospective undergraduate students apply to this program when they apply to Montclair.
2026 Bonner Applications are due by June 12, 2026. Apply today!
Next Generation Service Corps
Montclair participates in the NextGen Service Corp., a national network of more than 20 higher education institutions committed to preparing undergraduate students interested in public-service careers and public policy.
Healthy Communities Corps, AmeriCorps
When you participate in the federally-funded HCC AmeriCorp program, you help expand the reach of education services and public health. Service participants receive a living allowance stipend and an education award.
The Volunteer Center
The Volunteer Center connects Montclair State students, faculty, staff, and community members with meaningful opportunities to serve and engage with the community. Through programs such as Days of Service, campus service projects, and community volunteer initiatives, participants build connections, develop a deeper understanding of community needs, and create lasting positive change through service.
The Mary Beth Henry Scholarship
The Mary Beth Scholarship is presented annually to a student who exemplifies outstanding leadership in service and community engagement. Students are encouraged to apply but must have completed a community engaged learning course such as PSYCH 294: The Psychology of Leadership.
| Year | Award Recipient |
| 2026 | Christopher D'Amato |
| 2025 | Menen Gowdie |
| 2024 | Brittney Vaca |
| 2022 | Isabella Ghaleb |