University of Florida RUF International
Coming to UF from abroad isn’t easy. You’re leaving everything that’s familiar and jumping in to a new place, learning a new culture and functioning in another language. That’s a lot! RUF-I exists to be a refuge for you, a place you can call home abroad. We’re here to welcome international students, scholars and families, provide a safe environment to explore the good news of Jesus, and equip Christian internationals to grow in their relationship with Christ. If you’re an international student looking for a place to connect, we are here for you! Please email to learn more.
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Meet Our Team
Jon Bonker
Jon was born and raised in Washington, D.C., and did his undergraduate studies at James Madison University. He then studied at Covenant Seminary where he received his MDiv in 2007 and was ordained as a minister in the PCA in 2009. He set out the same year to do missionary work in Bangladesh, where he remained until meeting his amazing wife, Katie, in 2011. Katie did her undergraduate work at San Diego State University and had just returned from spending two years in Malawi, Africa. They were married in 2012 and returned to Bangladesh with Mission to the World where they began the adventure of doing life, marriage and family together in a unique and wonderful place. It was here they lived, worked, and raised their children (Hannah, Naomi, Judah, Micaiah, and later, David) until the pandemic brought them back to the States. Having lived abroad as foreigners themselves, Jon and Katie understand some of the challenges that international students face. They’re so excited to be at UF welcoming students from all over the world!