Congratulations to our 2023 Bunting Fellows

The Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute would like to extend its warmest congratulations to the 2023 Fellows on successfully completing the Bunting Neighborhood Leadership Program! Twelve Fellows celebrated their graduation from the program in a ceremony held on December 12 at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum in Baltimore.

This program provided the Fellows with a 30-week training curriculum covering a comprehensive range of topics essential to effective community leadership. Throughout the program, the Fellows embarked on a transformative journey, gaining valuable insights and knowledge in various areas, including self-support, leadership, building relationships and organizing, and deconstructing racism unconscious bias.  

The 2023 Fellows engaged with Baltimore community leaders, including Senator Cory McCray, in discussions that highlighted the importance of civic engagement and collaboration in driving positive change. Through this experience, they gained valuable insight, engaged with the legislative process, and shared their perspectives.

Fellows also attended a council meeting with Councilman Ryan Dorsey and Councilwoman Odette Ramos. They gained a deeper understanding of how decisions are made at City Hall by witnessing the legislative process firsthand. In addition, they engaged with Councilwoman McCray, who expressed concerns about maternal mortality rates. 

“Being a community activist and organizer, this organization really helped me to learn many ways to connect with the community,” said Tahira Mussarat Hussain. “I have so many tools in my hand that I can use to polish my skills in policy and advocacy.” 

In addition to these meetings, the fellows received training from Johns Hopkins faculty and staff, as well as partners, on their respective fields of work. This training equipped them with the necessary knowledge to effectively share their expertise with the wider community and make a positive impact on the city. 

By exploring these various dimensions of community leadership, the Fellows gained a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities that face urban neighborhoods. This comprehensive training will undoubtedly help them become well-rounded and effective community leaders, capable of driving positive change and fostering healthier and more equitable communities.  

“The opportunity to learn multiple dimensions of neighborhood leadership community development through the BNLP curriculum has been invaluable,” said Hope Ford. “I am empowered to be the leader I know I am naturally." 

“Two of the most important things that I have learned while being a bunting fellow is the opportunity to network with my fellow cohort and fellow instructors. And gaining knowledge from instructors, directors, and just being a part of the Hopkins system,” said Russell Bunn.

The Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute is proud to have supported these Fellows throughout their training program. We believe that their commitment to making a difference in their communities and their willingness to learn and growth is inspiring. We are excited to see the impact they will make as they continue to lead and advocate for positive change in their communities. 

“My advice to the next cohort is to be open to new ideas, open to collaborations, and understanding each individual person who has a role to make an impact,” said Dion Bowen. 

Once again, congratulations to the 2023 Fellows of the Bunting Neighborhood Leadership Program. Your successful completion of this program is a testament to your dedication, passion, and commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others. We look forward to witnessing your continued growth and success in your future endeavors.