Hello! My name is Dola Flake, and I’m the Coordinator for Bears L.E.A.D., a FREE program offered at Missouri State University. This new program is designed with the unique needs of our diverse and first-generation students in mind. We want students to be successful at Missouri State University! 
I realize times are uncertain due to Covid-19, but we are planning for the near future with hopes campus activities will resume soon.
Bears L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Empowerment, Achievement, and Diversity) is an initiative created out of Missouri State University’s commitment to providing a welcoming, supportive environment for all students. We want to ensure students feel Missouri State is a place they can thrive in and achieve their goals!
As family members, we worry about how our children will adjust to being away from home in a new and different environment. At Missouri State, we recognize that student success is more than academics but also ensuring students have positive interactions on campus and off campus.
Bears L.E.A.D. provides space to interact with other diverse students, faculty, staff and community members. We provide students opportunities that will build meaningful friendships and create a strong support system. 
Other free services include the following:
- Peer mentoring
- Personal and professional development
- Reading/study skills assistance
- Financial Support
- Career exploration
- Volunteer opportunities
- Community Engagement
To get more information about Bears L.E.A.D. please contact our office at 417.836.4313 or visit our website: https://www.missouristate.edu/bearslead/