Trenton Thunder GM Jon Bodnar Joins FA’s Board of Trustees, Backs Educators

by Raheem Veal

Trenton Thunder GM Jon Bodnar’s commitment to educators stems from his lifelong admiration for his mother, a 1st and 2nd grade teacher. He recalls watching her arrive home each evening, weary from a long day in the classroom but wearing a wide smile. She was doing what she loved. As a result, Bodnar’s latest personal initiative was to join Foundation Academies Board of Trustees and make supporting educators his top priority.

“I have the utmost respect for educators–what they give and experience on a daily basis. My mission is to make sure FA has all the support needed from The Board to inspire scholars and educators,” he said.

FA’s fruitful partnership with the Trenton Thunder has evolved to include sponsored ad placements, stadium takeover activations, and more. Bodnar has personally served on the former Leadership Council, facilitated student internships and continually increased his investment in our institution. Growing the relationship has been a no brainer for him, and he chalks that up to the dedicated leaders and teammates he’s connected with at FA.

“I’ve worked with some of the best people at Foundation. From receiving an introduction through FOFA to being captivated by the graduation ceremony to collaborating with the leadership team, I have been impressed with the passion they share,” he said.

Rubbing his chin, he added, “I met the right people who cared about stepping up for FA, saw a vision for how it can grow, and how we can shape, invest in, and inspire Trenton.”

Bodnar believes that effective leaders are great listeners and, above all, inspiring. As the Trenton Thunder’s lead strategist, he pushes himself to craft an experience that sparks passion in each child. Bodnar’s love for baseball began as a 4-year old attending Thunder games, continued as a multi-sport athlete, and blossomed in his prior marketing role with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Thankful for the full circle moment of leading the team he grew up watching, after 10 years with the organization, he aims to inspire the next generation.

“I want kids at FA, in the Trenton area overall, to view Trenton Thunder stadium as their home away from home–where they can grow up. I want them to dream of the day they could be in a seat better than mine,” he said.

With the Trenton Thunder sharing the same colors as Foundation Academies, Bodnar wants these colors to symbolize a standard of excellence and support. A proponent of education, he believes teachers should go the extra mile for their scholars and be rewarded for it. He plans on ensuring FA’s educators know the Board of Trustees has their back and values them. He believes educators comprise the key element to inspiring the next generation of leaders.

“They are truly the leaders of today,” he said.