The LEAD Scholars Program, formerly known as the Urban Education Program, was founded in 1968 to provide college access, mentoring, and academic advising to students of color who may not have otherwise had such opportunities, given the turbulent social climate of the time.
Since then, the LEAD Scholars Program has evolved to offer holistic support services to all students who self-identify as first-generation or demonstrate financial need. The program embraces the value of an academic community enriched by a range of educational backgrounds and is especially committed to increasing the representation of populations historically excluded from higher education.
The mission of the LEAD Scholars Program, formerly known as the Urban Education Program, is to provide college readiness and support for first-generation students to improve individual performance and academic achievement. Since its inception in 1968, the LEAD Scholars Program has upheld the goal of enhancing and enriching the academic community by empowering first-generation college students and fostering academic excellence and leadership.
Take the next step and apply to the LEAD Scholars Program. Prospective students can express interest in the program by checking "yes" on Special Admission Opportunities in their application.
There are two ways to apply.
Exciting News!
Westfield State University has the distinction of being the first chapter in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts of Alpha Alpha Alpha, the honor society for first generation college students.
Are you a first-generation college student (those whose parents do not have a four-year degree)? Are you interested in receiving ongoing academic support while attending Westfield State? Do you envision yourself as a future leader? Could you use an additional $2,000 during your first year of college?
If you answered YES to each question, then the LEAD Scholars Program is just for you!
We are not just a Summer Bridge Program. After matriculation, LEAD Scholars Program services continue throughout the student's educational career at Westfield State University. The LEAD Scholars Program provides holistic academic and personal support for each program student. We are dedicated to the growth of confident and capable individuals. We strongly encourage students to take full advantage of our program services once they have matriculated at Westfield State University.
Inactivity and/or failure to comply with program requirements, will result in withdrawal from the LEAD Scholars Program.
