BOLD Women's Leadership Network

The BOLD Women’s Leadership Network is an innovative leadership initiative across six institutions of higher education who have demonstrated their commitment to collaboration, innovation, diversity, and inclusion: Ithaca College; University of Connecticut; Colby-Sawyer College; College of Saint Rose; Middlebury College; and Rutgers University–Newark.

BOLD scholars are awarded two-year scholarships work together in cohorts of 10 students, supported by a program director, and an administrative lead at each institution. Through a structured curriculum, community building retreats, and the implementation of a campus transformation project, BOLD scholars aim to positively impact the college and community. The program is aimed towards advancing the scholars' career and professional development through networking and mentorship opportunities.

The BOLD network is committed to supporting scholars from all backgrounds and especially those who have been historically underrepresented in higher education in terms of socioeconomic class, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship, and ability.

Envisioned and founded by Ithaca College’s former president, Shirley M. Collado, the BOLD Women’s Leadership Network is generously funded by the Helen Gurley Brown Foundation, established to honor legendary Cosmopolitan magazine editor Helen Gurley Brown. In the spirit of Brown’s legacy, BOLD develops courageous leadership among scholars in higher education who possess the skills necessary to move discourse forward on some of our most challenging social issues.

Bonnie Prunty, Vice President of Student Affairs and Campus Life, is the Administrative Lead at Ithaca College. Prunty has served Ithaca College in a variety of roles including Director of Residential Life and Judicial Affairs, and the Dean of Students since 1988.  In her current role she provides strategic leadership and vision for the division of SACL. 

Mish Lenhart is the BOLD Program Director at Ithaca College. Lenhart began working at Ithaca College in 2008 and took on the BOLD Program in July 2023, Please direct all questions to her at mlenhart@ithaca.edu or 607-274-5728. You can also email bold@ithaca.edu.

Questions?

Contact Mish Lenhart, BOLD Program Director

Call (607) 274-3222 or email mlenhart@ithaca.edu or bold@ithaca.edu.

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