Access and Success Programs continue to support students through academic resources, community events, and campus involvement. Here are some key highlights from November.  

Student Spotlight

We are incredibly proud to celebrate several Bears Lead students who have joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, as charter members of the Upsilon Upsilon chapter! Their involvement reflects their strong leadership, dedication, and commitment to scholarship and service. These students are helping shape the foundation of the new chapter and creating a lasting legacy on campus. 🩷💚

Programming 

Foundation Scholarship Workshop

Each year, Access and Success Programs hosts a Foundation Scholarship Workshop designed to help students navigate the application process with confidence. Kelsey Menefee, Director of University Advancement Relations, walked students through scholarship requirements, essay strategies, deadlines, and helpful tips to make their submissions stand out.  

Study Sessions

We continued to host study sessions every other Thursday, providing a supportive space for students to focus, collaborate, and stay on track academically.  

Homecoming Participation

This year’s Homecoming festivities were nothing short of unforgettable – and Bears Lead students played a major role in the celebration! Our students brought energy, teamwork, and creativity to a full lineup of events, including: 

• Office Decorating: 1st Place  
• Banner Painting: 3rd Place 
• Chalk ‘n Rock 
• Window Painting 
• Field Day 
• Parade: Walking Division – 1st Place, Car Division – 3rd Place 

During tailgating, we partnered with Global Education and Engagement to host a joint space that offered food, games, and a welcoming environment for students to connect before the game. 

Bears in Mexico Study Abroad Info Session

Along with the Office of Education Abroad, we hosted an info session for the upcoming Bears in Mexico study abroad trip, planned for Bears Lead students in Summer 2026. During the session, students learned about the itinerary, cultural experiences, academic components, and opportunities for personal growth that the trip will offer. The session also covered costs and funding resources to help students plan ahead for this exciting international experience. 

Bearsgiving

For our annual Bearsgiving event, we partnered with the Bear Pantry to help assemble snack packs that support Missouri State students facing food insecurity. Students also wrote Hope Notes to include in the backpacks given to children through the Ozarks Food Harvest’s Weekend Backpack Program. To close out the event, students spent time writing thank-you cards to people who have supported them – whether friends, family, or mentors. This event continues to serve as a simple way for students to come together and contribute to the campus & Springfield community. 

Join the Access and Success Programs Community    

Whether you are a campus or community partner, current or former Bears Lead student, or simply interested in learning more about Access and Success Programs, we invite you to join our community. Together, we are committed to empowering students, celebrating achievements, and creating pathways to success. Sign up for our blog for monthly updates on Access and Success Programs.      

Support Bears Lead   

Want to contribute to the work our department is doing to support students through Bears Lead? You can donate to our MSU Foundation fund! To do so, complete the MSU Foundation gift form and select Bears Lead from the options listed when you select “Click here to search or choose multiple designations.” Thank you for your support!  

We’re Social!

For more frequent updates, success stories, and opportunities to get involved, stay connected with Bears Lead on social media.      

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