Experiencing New Eras of Opportunity and Growth

This Giving Day, Access and Success Programs is excited to enter a new era of growth and opportunity for our Bears Lead program. By donating, you will help us provide students with life-changing experiences that go beyond the classroom. 

What is Bears Lead? 

Bears Lead is a two-year college transition program aimed at supporting low-income and first-generation, first-time college students. Currently, 57% of Bears Lead students are first-generation and 81% are Pell Grant eligible. The program provides academic support, mentorship, and resources to ensure these students succeed both in and outside the classroom. In this new era, we are excited to expand our support by connecting students with experiential learning opportunities. 

What is Experiential Learning?  

Experiential learning is learning by doing. Through experiential learning, students can apply what they are learning in the classroom in the real world. This leads to greater understanding, skill, and preparation for a future career as well as an increase in soft skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, and communication.  

First-generation and low-income students often face barriers such as lack of exposure and affordability that keep them from accessing experiential learning opportunities. Bears Lead is excited to help students overcome these barriers.  

Spring Break Trips 

Thanks to generous one-time funding from the Division of Student Affairs and partnerships with Outdoor Adventures, International Programs, and the Center for Community Engagement, we were able to offer scholarships for Bears Lead and international students to participate in spring break trips to the Southwest, Dallas, and Chicago. These trips offer a unique chance for students to explore new cultures, support meaningful causes, and engage in experiential learning. By donating, you help ensure that these transformative opportunities continue for Bears Lead students.

Spotlighting Our Bears Lead Students

This year, Milo Cain, David Rice, Asher Van Maanen, Jalyssa Keyton, and Tristin Cathcart participated in these life-changing trips. 

Milo and David’s Trip to Chicago

On their trip to Chicago, Milo and David volunteered in the mornings and explored the city in the afternoons. With their group, they packed over 16,000 pounds of food, provided meals for 700+ people, and sorted clothing for nearly 400 youths. We are so proud of them for making a real impact on those in need!  

Asher, Jalyssa, and Tristan’s Trip to the Southwest 

Asher, Jalyssa, and Tristan explored the diverse landscapes and cultures of New Mexico and Colorado. From deserts to mountains, they immersed themselves in the region’s history. Their journey deepened their appreciation for the area’s rich cultural heritage and the people who call it home.

How You Can Make a Difference 

We are excited to continue offering experiential learning spring break trips to students and eager to expand these opportunities to fall break as well. We are also working on developing new opportunities with other campus and community partners.  

Your contribution will help provide scholarships for these trips and support future experiential learning opportunities for Bears Lead students. To donate, visit the Bears Lead Giving Day page. 

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a lasting impact. 

A Special Thank You to Our Collaborators 

We’d like to extend our gratitude to our partners who make these opportunities possible: 

• Center for Community Engagement 
• International Programs 
• Foster Recreation Center – Outdoor Adventures 

Together, we’re empowering Bears Lead students to create new eras of opportunity and growth. Thank you for your generosity and support!