On graduation day, Rhodes College students who have participated in the Bonner Scholarship program march in the processional with their classmates in traditional caps and gowns, but with something extra—red Converse sneakers. Rachel Carroll ’26, a senior health equity major from Memphis, is excited about wearing the sneakers, a tradition carried on by Bonner Scholars at Rhodes to show their commitment to “walk loudly” and make a positive impact in the world.
The Bonner Program connects academic studies and leadership skills with community service at various institutions of higher education. Established by the Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation of Princeton, NJ, this program was introduced at Rhodes in 1992.
Carroll is a member of the inaugural graduating class (2022) of Crosstown High School. The charter school is situated within the iconic Crosstown Concourse in Midtown Memphis, a former Sears, Roebuck & Co. distribution center that has transformed into a vibrant community filled with restaurants, apartments, businesses, recreation, and entertainment. Crosstown High focuses on learning through project-based work connected to the community.
Located just a few blocks from the Concourse, Rhodes is renowned for its access to internships, research opportunities, and community service. Carroll was offered the Bonner Scholarship after applying to Rhodes as one of her college choices. “I chose Rhodes because of the scholarship and for the educational opportunities the school provides. I wanted to make an impact by serving my community and believed Rhodes would be the place to do so,” says Carroll. “Choosing to remain rooted in Memphis has proven to be an enriching choice.”
Bonner Scholars select service sites, often focusing on nonprofits, schools, and government agencies. “I am grateful for the lasting connections I have made and the service I have been able to contribute to Bridges USA and the Southside Wildcats,” says Carroll.
Bridges USA is a nonprofit that encourages youth to raise their voices, build connections, and lead transformative change in their communities. At Bridges, Carroll was the outreach intern, delivering presentations at various schools to educate students about the program.
The South Side Wildcats is a youth athletics organization with a football team and dedicated to mentoring, academic tutoring, and teaching life skills rooted in Christian faith. Carroll serves as an assistant coach helping with tumbling and stunts. On campus, she has participated on the Rhodes College Cheer Squad.
Additionally, Carroll is the programming co-chair on the Rhodes College Bonner Scholarship Leadership Council, a group responsible for the governance, vision-setting, and day-to-day management of the program.
As a health equity major, Carroll says, “I have had the opportunity to immerse myself in my chosen field through multiple hands-on courses that have allowed me to engage in intimate conversations and thoughtful projects aimed at improving the Memphis community.” She also completed a Health Equity Fellowship, where she researched and analyzed how student-led curricula could lead to increased community engagement.
Carroll developed an interest in environmental issues and food sovereignty during her time at Crosstown High. She decided to conduct research on the impact of community gardens in Memphis for her project as a 2025 Regional Studies Fellow at Rhodes. Her research culminated in the publication of the Urban Farm Guidebook: Post the Closing of Big Green Memphis.
Bonner Scholars often emerge as campus leaders, as demonstrated by Carroll. She is president of the Black Student Association, president of the Nu Phi chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and a senior class officer.
Carroll has been accepted into the master’s program at the University of Arkansas’ Clinton School of Public Service, a testament to her commitment to making a difference in the world. “I want to become a health care and environmental justice policy writer with a focus on community-led action and engagement.”
For local students considering Rhodes, Carroll offers this advice: “Think about the person you want to become and see if you envision that person growing and flourishing here. If you can, then you'll know you've made the right choice.”