Karina Bonilla, MSW
Interim Director of the Father Jonathan DeFelice, O.S.B. Center for Intercultural Learning and Inclusion
Biography
Most recently, Karina served as the inaugural Program and Policy Director of Centro Latino de New Hampshire, the state's only Latinx-focused organization. In that role, she supervised a team of Community Specialists, cultivated strategic partnerships, secured funding to sustain and expand programming, and developed foundational initiatives informed by community needs assessments. Among the initiatives she helped establish were ESOL, Citizenship, Know Your Rights, and Health Management programs. She also played a key role in policy advocacy and civic engagement efforts, helping to elevate the voices and needs of Latinx communities across New Hampshire.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Karina currently serves on the boards of the New Hampshire Center for Justice and Equity and the Manchester Community Resource Center. Prior to her work at Centro Latino, she completed her Master of Social Work and interned with the New Hampshire Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. She was subsequently hired as the chapter's lobbyist.
Karina is returning to the Hilltop as a proud alumna, of the class of 2021, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Natural Sciences. Following her undergraduate studies, Karina served as an AmeriCorps VISTA member in the Meelia Center for Community Engagement. After completing her year of service, she remained at Saint Anselm, serving in progressively responsible leadership roles, including Community Engagement Coordinator, Assistant Director of Student Leadership, and Director of Access Academy within the Meelia Center. She later pursued her graduate studies, earning a Master of Social Work from The University of New Hampshire, while continuing to build her professional experience in community engagement, student development, and social services.
Karina is also no stranger to the Intercultural Center. As a student, she was actively involved in the Center's programs and served as Head Transitions Mentor during her senior year. Her personal experience as a student leader, combined with her professional accomplishments, provides her with a unique perspective on the Center's role in fostering belonging, intercultural learning, and student success.
Karina's appointment reflects the College's ongoing commitment to the mission and work of the Father Jonathan DeFelice, O.S.B. Center for Intercultural Learning and Inclusion. Her extensive experience in community engagement, advocacy, program development, and student support, combined with her knowledge of Saint Anselm and its students, positions her well to lead the Center and advance its efforts to ensure that all students are welcomed, valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. I am confident that Karina will further strengthen the Center's impact as we continue cultivating a campus community where every person experiences a genuine sense of belonging.