Access and Success Blog

The Bears are Back: August Highlights

by

August was a busy start to the new academic year for Access & Success Programs! From welcoming new students to kicking off programming, here are a few highlights from the month. 

Bears Lead Orientation Four students sitting at a table smiling.

We were so excited to welcome our newest Bears Leaders to campus this past month! On August 13th and 14th, we hosted our Bears Lead Orientation – a two-day event packed with fun and learning.   

We started things off on Thursday with check-in during the afternoon and pizza & games later that night. It was the perfect chance for students to meet new friends, hang out, and settle in before the big day ahead.  

Friday was all about preparing for success at Missouri State. Students participated in sessions on organization and time management, learned from a faculty panel, and connected through team-building activities. These sessions gave our new Bears tips, tricks, and confidence to take on their first year.  

We were also lucky to have a very special guest join us – Dr. Clarenda Phillips, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. She shared words of encouragement and showed her support for our students as they begin this new chapter.  

The energy, excitement, and smiles we saw over those two days set the tone for an amazing year ahead. Thank you to everyone who helped make Bears Lead Orientation a success, and congratulations to our newest Bears as they begin their journey at Missouri State! 

Access Programs 

71 new students from our access partnerships (Boys & Girls Clubs, KC Scholars, Big Brothers Big Sisters, etc.) joined us on campus as part of our new cohort of Bears Leaders. We’re excited to welcome this new group of students to the Mo State community and support them as they find their place on campus! 

Programming Two students sitting at a table smiling.

In addition to orientation, Bears Lead hosted our first two events of the semester. We started with Speed Friending, giving students a chance to meet and get to know other Bears Lead students and grow their campus community. Later in the month, we hosted our first study session, focusing on time management and organization. Students used their class syllabi to map out important assignments, exams, and deadlines for the semester. Both events encouraged students to connect with one another while building practical skills to support a successful start to the academic year. 

Student Spotlight Student standing in front of the ocean.

This summer, Bears Lead Ambassador Erin Ashford spent a month studying abroad in Galway, Ireland, where she took two courses: Irish History and The Archaeological Heritage of Ireland. Her archaeological heritage course included excursions to historic sites, where she was able to experience Ireland’s history firsthand and even handle some ancient artifacts. “My favorite part of the experience was definitely the excursions,” Erin said. “I am a history major, so it was very exciting to actually go to these sites that held so much history within them.” 

Beyond academics, Erin’s time abroad helped her grow more independent and confident. “This was my first time being independent and in a different country, so I definitely learned to trust myself more and rely on my own instincts,” she said. The experience also gave her a deeper understanding of Irish culture and challenged some of the common misconceptions she had encountered about Ireland. 

Erin’s study abroad experience is just one example of how experiential learning opportunities can support students’ academic, personal, and professional growth. We are so proud of you, Erin!  

Join the Access & 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 & 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 & 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.       

Summer Updates

by

This summer, Access & Success Programs has continued supporting student success through international learning experiences, college access initiatives, and community partnerships. Read on for updates from Bears Lead, Access Programs, and our partners.

Bears in Mexico

From May 17-30, a group of Bears Leaders participated in the Bears in Mexico study abroad experience in Mérida, Mexico. Students were immersed in the culture, history, and traditions of the Yucatán Peninsula while studying at Universidad Anáhuac Mayab.

Representing Bears Lead on the trip were:Students pose for a photo while swimming in a cenote.

  • Symphony Darville  
  • Terrell Burse  
  • David Rice  
  • Lexus Diaz  

Throughout the two-week program, students attended classes at Anáhuac Mayab University, where they explored Yucatán culture, history, and contemporary society through an international lens. The experience provided opportunities to learn directly from local faculty while engaging with students and community members in the region. 

The itinerary balanced classroom learning with hands-on cultural experiences. Students visited some of the Yucatán’s most significant historical and cultural sites, including Chichén Itzá, one of the most recognized archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilization. They also toured the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, gaining deeper insight into the history, traditions, and ongoing influence of Maya culture. 

Beyond the classroom, students participated in a variety of immersive experiences that brought their learning to life. Highlights included: 

  • Swimming and exploring cenotes, the natural sinkholes that are unique to the region
  • Visiting the historic Hacienda Sotuta de Peón to learn about the area’s agricultural history and henequen industry
  • Exploring the coastal community of Progreso during a beach day
  • Visiting the town of Xcanchakán and learning about local community life
  • Participating in a cooking workshop focused on traditional Yucatán cuisine

The Bears in Mexico program exemplified the value of experiential learning. By combining academic coursework, cultural immersion, and international travel, students developed a broader global perspective while strengthening skills in communication, adaptability, and cultural awareness.

We are incredibly proud of Symphony, Terrell, David, and Lexus for representing Bears Lead and Missouri State University abroad while embracing this transformative educational opportunity.

Access Programs

Summer Visit Day

On June 26th, Access & Success Programs welcomed students from Girl Scouts, Wyman Center, and College Bound to Missouri State University’s campus as part of Summer Visit Day programming. 

Throughout the day, students experienced what life is like as a Missouri State Bear. Participants attended admissions presentations, explored campus resources, toured university facilities, and learned more about the academic and student support opportunities available at Missouri State. The visit provided valuable exposure to the college experience and encouraged students to begin envisioning their own pathways to higher education. 

These visits are an important part of Access Programs’ mission to increase college awareness, strengthen college-going identities, and help students see themselves as future college graduates.

Celebrating 20 Years of College Bound

Access & Success Programs Director Dr. Ryan Reed recently attended College Bound‘s Cap & Gown Gala, a special event celebrating 20 years of College Bound and its impact on students and families.

The evening was dedicated to honoring students, supporters, and two decades of empowering futures through educational opportunities. The celebration highlighted the achievements of College Bound students and recognized the community partners, mentors, and advocates who have helped make those successes possible.

Access & Success Programs is proud to partner with organizations like College Bound that share a commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting students as they pursue their academic goals.

Join the Access & 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 & 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 & 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.      

Celebrating Fall Semester Success

by

December featured notable achievements and academic success for our students in Access & Success Programs. Below are a few end-of-semester highlights! 

Academic Excellence 

The 448 students served by Access & Success Programs demonstrated strong academic performance during the Fall 2025 semester, earning an overall GPA of 3.29 and a semester GPA of 3.12. 177 students (40%) were recognized on the Dean’s List! 

Bears Lead Ambassadors stood out in particular, with a 3.55 overall GPA, 3.44 semester GPA, and 52% earning Dean’s List honors! 

We are so proud of our students and the hard work and dedication these accomplishments represent. 

Student Spotlight 

Gilman Scholarship Recipients

We are proud to celebrate two Bears Lead students who were awarded the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, expanding access to global learning opportunities: 

  • Caleb Morris will study abroad for a full academic year in Nishinomiya, Japan, at Kwansei Gakuin University. In addition to the Gilman Scholarship, Caleb also received the Critical Need Language Award for Japanese, recognizing his commitment to language learning in a high-need area. 
  • Lexus Diaz will study abroad this summer with Bears Lead in Mérida, Mexico, at Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, where she will participate in academic coursework and engage in cultural immersion. 

Citizen Scholar Award Recipients

Six professionally dress people standing togetherWe are also incredibly proud to celebrate three Bears Lead alumni who received the Citizen Scholar Award, the highest honor a Missouri State University student can earn: 

  • Megan Bolen 
  • Jessica Snare 
  • Sam Wang 

This award recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and civic engagement.  

Mo State Graduates

Finally, we want to recognize the ten Bears Lead alums who graduated from Missouri State this semester:

  • Nicole Bowden
  • Laci Connelly
  • Kyra Cullers
  • Abou Gayeyou
  • Amber Higgins
  • Niyizigama Jeanine
  • Jordan Lawver
  • Arthur Parr
  • Elizabeth Poe
  • Megan Sanders

Congratulations, Bears Leaders! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!

Programming 

End-of-Semester Celebration: Wonders of Wildlife 

To celebrate the end of the semester and relax before finals week, we wrapped things up with a visit to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. The trip gave students a chance to unwind and spend time with their peers.  

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.      

October in Review

by

Access and Success Programs had an active October full of academic, wellness, and community-building activities. Students engaged in meaningful programs and events that supported their success both inside and outside the classroom. 

Programming

First-Year and Second-Year Monthly Meetings 

Our first-year students gathered for their October meeting focused on academic advising and spring registration. Students learned how to prepare for advising appointments and plan their spring schedules. 

Second-year students took time to focus on their personal well-being during their monthly meeting. We were joined by Tena Reel, Coordinator of Student Wellness, who shared student wellness programming available on campus. Students also completed a wellness wheel self-assessment and started an affirmation journal. 

Bears Lead Intramural Basketball 

We are proud to sponsor another Bears Lead intramural team. This time – basketball! We have had so much fun watching them on the court.  

Fall Showcase

Bears Lead Ambassadors represented Access and Success Programs at the Student Life Expo during the Fall Showcase, connecting with prospective students and sharing their experiences in the program. 

Cooking Talks with Dietetics and Nutrition

In collaboration with the Dietetics and Nutrition Department, we hosted two Cooking Talks this month. Students learned how to prepare simple, healthy meals right from their dorms using ingredients available at the Bear Pantry.  

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.  

FAFSA Support Session 

We partnered with the Office of Financial Aid to host a FAFSA Support Session, helping students navigate the financial aid process and prepare their applications for the upcoming year. 

Pumpkin Painting

To celebrate the fall season, we held a Pumpkin Painting event, giving students a chance to unwind, get creative, and enjoy time together.  

Soccer Tailgate  

We co-hosted a Soccer Tailgate with Global Education and Engagement, cheering on the Bears and enjoying pizza & giveaways.  

Access and Success Programs 

Welcoming New Leadership Tara Joyce

Access and Success Programs is pleased to welcome Tara Joyce as the new Associate Director of Access and Success. Tara joins us from the Office of Financial Aid at Iowa State University, bringing with her a strong background in supporting student success. As a Missouri State alumna, Tara is excited to return to her alma mater and contribute to the success of our Bears. Her leadership and experience will be a tremendous asset as our program continues to grow. 

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.      

September in Review

by

September was busy with events and activities – here’s a look at the highlights from Access and Success Programs: 

Programming

Meet Your Major

One of the biggest events this month was our combined monthly meeting, “Meet Your Major.” We were thrilled to welcome around 40 faculty and staff members from across Missouri State’s different colleges to join our first- and second-year students for dinner, conversation, and connection. This was a great opportunity for students to meet professors and staff in their academic areas and begin building meaningful relationships that will support their academic journeys. 

Study Sessions 

Our bi-weekly study sessions continued strong, giving students a supportive space every other Thursday to prepare for classes, study together, and stay on track academically. 

Field Day at the Rec

Students enjoyed field day at the rec center with a variety of activities, including table tennis, cornhole, basketball, and giant volleyball.  

Bears in Mexico – Study Abroad Info Session 

We also hosted a virtual information session about the upcoming Bears in Mexico study abroad trip, planned for Summer 2026. Students had the chance to learn about this exciting international opportunity and start thinking ahead about how to get involved. 

Family Weekend Tailgate

During Family Weekend, we co-hosted a tent at the football tailgate with the Global Education & Engagement team. This was a fun opportunity to connect with our Bears Lead families! 

Bears Lead Intramural Volleyball 

We are also proud sponsors of a Bears Lead intramural sand volleyball team. They’ve had a strong season so far and are headed into the playoffs – Go Bears! 

First-Year and Second-Year Monthly Meetings

Our monthly meetings provided practical skills for student success: 

First-Year Meeting: We tackled budgeting with an interactive “Price Is Right: College Edition” activity, helping students understand how to stretch their dollars and manage expenses.

Second-Year Meeting: We focused on credit with a session led by guest speaker Rebecca Greene from Central Bank’s ProsperU, who shared insights on building and maintaining healthy credit. 

Access Programs 

Boys & Girls Club Teen Center 

In August, our partner – The Boys & Girls Club of Springfield – celebrated the opening of their new Teen Center. This incredible resource gives teens free access to counseling, food, clothes, medical visits, and haircuts. There is also a gym, library, art studio, and an e-sports lounge. 

KC Scholars Vision Board Event 

We partnered with KC Scholars to host a vision board event on campus. Scholars had the chance to set goals for the academic year by building vision boards while also enjoying Raising Cane’s. It was a great way to build community and set intentions for the months ahead.

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.      

Summer Wrap-Up and What’s Next

by

With the fall semester around the corner, Access and Success Programs is wrapping up a busy summer and getting ready for an exciting year ahead. Here’s a look at what we’ve been up to!  

Access Programs Students posing in front of the MSU bear statue

In July, Bears Lead program coordinators Armani Eason and Kylie Haraldson led an “academic success crash course” session at the Wyman Connections Summit held at Saint Louis University. They covered key skills for starting and continuing college strong, including organization, time management, how to read a syllabus, and email etiquette. Also this month, College Bound students visited Missouri State University for Summer Visit Day, where they had the chance to explore campus, learn more about academic programs, and get a feel for college life firsthand. 

Bears Lead 

As the new school year approaches, we’re getting ready to welcome students back with a full lineup of events and support. Bears Lead Orientation is just around the corner, giving incoming freshmen a chance to connect with peers, meet staff, and get familiar with campus resources before classes begin. In addition to orientation, we’re planning several social events to help students build community and ease the transition into the fall semester. From casual meetups to more structured gatherings, we’re focused on starting the year strong and making sure everyone feels supported from day one. 

Student Spotlight

One of our Bears Lead students, Natalie Koester, traveled to Greece this summer to study abroad! Natalie shared the following about her trip: 

“γεια σου! This summer, I studied abroad at the American College of Thessaloniki in Thessaloniki, Greece. I lived in Greece for a month and a half. I took a class called Understanding Greek Life and Culture. We learned about the history of Greek life and culture. My teacher even taught us Greek! I visited multiple places in Greece. I went to multiple beaches, visited Athens, and even hiked Mount Olympus. Greek food is amazing. I ate so much amazing food that I would go back just for that! In Athens, I visited the Acropolis and its museum. We also visited the Oracle of Delphi. While I was abroad, I got the chance to visit Bucharest, Romania, which was very cool. I got to see Bran’s Castle and Peles Castle. At the end of my trip, I hiked Mount Olympus. The hike was very exhausting, but so worth it. I am very grateful for the opportunity as I got to meet some amazing people from all over the US!”  

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.     

Building Global Opportunities and Local Pathways to Success

by

In Access and Success Programs, we are dedicated to expanding opportunities for our students. This month, we highlight exciting progress with the Bears Lead in Mexico program, global student experiences, and local outreach efforts that continue to open doors to college and beyond.

Bears Lead in Mexico

In June, Assistant Director Alaina Smith, along with Amy Huff and Morgan Marler from Education Abroad, conducted a site visit to two universities in Mexico. The purpose of the visit was to explore potential education abroad opportunities for students and faculty and to plan the Bears Lead in Mexico program for summer 2026. 

ITESO, Universidad Jesuita de Guadalajara

The visit began in Springfield, Missouri’s sister city—Tlaquepaque, Jalisco—where the team met with community partners and representatives from ITESO, Universidad Jesuita de Guadalajara (The Jesuit University of Guadalajara). ITESO is a dynamic institution that emphasizes sustainability and technology. The campus itself is a botanical garden, thoughtfully designed to promote environmental stewardship. ITESO offers international students the opportunity to study Spanish and take a variety of courses in English. Studying abroad at ITESO is remarkably affordable compared to programs on other continents. Students benefit from a range of support services, including a buddy group of local and international students, gated housing right next to campus, and dedicated assistance from ITESO’s Internationalization Office. We can’t wait for Bear Leaders to study on ITESO’s campus! 

Anáhuac Mayab University

The team then traveled to Mérida, Yucatán, to visit Anáhuac Mayab University—our partner institution for the upcoming Bears Lead in Mexico program. In summer 2026, we will bring 12–18 Bears Lead students to Mérida to participate in Anáhuac’s Yucatán Heritage Summer Program. This two-week program focuses on the cultural identity of the Yucatán region and includes academic coursework and excursions that expand on class topics. During the visit, we toured the campus, observed a class session, and joined students on one of the program’s excursions. We also explored additional excursion sites to better prepare for next summer’s experience. 

Supporting Bears Lead in Mexico

We are excited to offer these affordable and transformative education abroad opportunities to Bears Lead students. The Bears Lead in Mexico program is intentionally designed to support first-generation, low-income students with limited or no prior international travel experience. The program aims to build students’ confidence as travelers and enhance their cultural competence as global citizens. 

Interested in supporting the Bears Lead in Mexico program? You can make a gift through the MSU Foundation. Simply complete the MSU Foundation gift form and select “Bears Lead” from the list of designations by clicking “Click here to search or choose multiple designations.” You may also note that your donation is intended to support Bears Lead in Mexico. Thank you for your support! 

Student Spotlight 

Khennedy Adkins-DutroBears Lead student Khennedy Adkins-Dutro recently took part in a faculty-led study abroad trip to South Korea with Professor Yoojin Jo. Khennedy is majoring in Global Studies with a minor in Korean. The trip offered Khennedy and her classmates a deep dive into Korean culture, history, and society as they explored several cities across the country – including Seoul, Busan, Jeonju, Gyeongju, and Sokcho. From major urban centers to smaller, historic towns, each stop provided a new perspective and learning opportunity. Khennedy shared, “This program was the perfect opportunity to immerse myself in the language and culture I’ve been passionate about for years.” 

Access Programs

Girl ScoutsThis summer, we continued our efforts to support access and college readiness through several key events. Dr. Ryan Reed attended College Bound’s Cap & Gown Gala, a meaningful event recognizing the achievements of students preparing to enter college, many as first-generation scholars. We also hosted Girl Scouts during Summer Visit Day, offering them a chance to explore campus and learn more about future college opportunities. These programs reflect Access Programs’ ongoing commitment to building pathways to higher education for students across the region. 

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.