Jonny Walker, ’24
Rochester
Sports media
While finishing his last few months at Bona’s, Jonny Walker has had the chance to reflect on some of his once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. He is the editor-in-chief of the Bona Venture and sports director at WSBU 88.3 FM “The Buzz.” Last February, Walker had the chance to travel to Arizona and attend Super Bowl LVII Radio Row.
“It’s nice to know that you’re wanted here, that you’re being supported, and people are recognizing some of the work you do. Even more, to know they are going out of their way to make sure you can stay here and do the best you can.”
Ella Smith, ’25
Portland, Oregon
Sports management
Travelling from Oregon to study at SBU does not seem like an easy thing to do, but Smith does it every year with a smile. Her love for sports goes undeniably deep — she is a goalkeeper on the women’s soccer team and a member of the Sport Management Club and Team Bona’s, a sports marketing club.
“Receiving a scholarship shows me that the alumni really care about the students, and that I am a student they believe is worth investing in. My scholarship impacted my decision to stay at Bona’s, a place I now love very much.”
David Scibilia, ’26
Syracuse
Strategic communication & marketing
As a student leader for BonaResponds, David Scibilia knows that challenging work is not hard when you are surrounded by good people. During the winter of 2023, Scibilia had one of the best experiences of his life when he travelled to Pine Island, Florida, to help repair homes and clean up the damage from Hurricane Ian. When his time at Bona’s comes to an end, Scibilia plans to follow in his parents’ footsteps and attend law school.
“When looking at schools, I considered which ones would give me the best education for the least amount of money. When it came down to the final two schools, receiving a scholarship is what helped me pick Bona’s.”
Jaeline Valdez, ’24
Bronx, New York
Sports media
Jaeline Valdez is no stranger to the world of sports. Growing, up she played basketball and volleyball, but she found her spark within baseball, and that led her to pursue an education in sports media. Valdez’s confidence opened many doors for her at Bona’s, where she is the co-president of the Black Student Union (BSU) and Latin America Student Organization (LASO). She also hosts a podcast for SBU-TV Sports and participates in Her Campus and the American Advertising Federation.
“Because of a scholarship, I get to pursue my education knowing people believe in me. It is a confidence boost knowing they want to see me succeed in life and are willing to help.”