DCA Department Mission 

The primary mission of Diversity and College Access (DCA) is to improve the retention and graduation rates for African American, Asian American and Pacific Islander, Latinx, Native American and LGBTQ+ students. DCA connects these students to on and off campus resources and supports pre-college programs for low-income, first generation and academically at-risk high school students. 

DCA Department Vision 

To provide a safe space for all students.  

LEAD Program Summary 

LEAD is a FREE year-long program that is focused on increasing first-year undergraduate students’ sense of belonging at UWSP. The program is aimed at providing a supportive community that promotes student success by getting first-year undergraduate students ahead and ready to start their college careers. It focuses on campus resources, transitioning into college, student success skills, social and enrichment activities, and the development of future campus leaders. 

       LEAD Peer Mentor Responsibilities: 

• Interact with approximately 100 first-year low-income and/or first-generation students during the week before the Fall 2025 semester. 

• Mentor approximately 10 incoming students individually. 

• Plan and attend regularly scheduled recreational activities and trips. 

• Gather necessary equipment and supplies. 

• Escort students to activities. 

• Facilitate and lead group discussions. 

• Observe required procedures and enforce program and University rules. 

• Respond to medical emergencies and manage unexpected occurrences. 

• Demonstrate responsible leadership to ensure program goals are met. 

• Track and complete required reports, cash, receipts, supplies, and equipment promptly at the program’s end. 

• Attend all meetings and mandatory training/orientation before the program begins. 

2025-2026 LEAD Schedule: 

• Mandatory Training: April (Spring 2025) - In Person 

• Mandatory Training: July (Summer 2025) - In Person OR Via Zoom 

• Summer Bridge Program Week: 08/23/2025 - 08/28/2025 (Fall 2025) 

• During 2025-2026 Academic Year: 5 Hours / Week; *Min. 1 Hour / Week In-Person @ Student Success Center    

LEAD Peer Mentor Qualifications: 

• Must work the full duration of the program. 

• Must be enrolled full-time for both 2025-2026 Fall/Spring Semesters. 

• Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher. 

• Sophomore standing or higher. 

• Knowledgeable about UWSP Campus (Academic resources, residential life, campus activities, etc.). 

• Demonstrate a level of maturity and responsibility. 

• Ability to work with small groups as well as one-on-one. 

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively within a team. 

• Willingness to learn and communicate new information to others. 

• Ability to address sensitive concerns of students and parents professionally, tactfully, and confidentially. 

• Ability to motivate and encourage others. 

• Flexible, outgoing, personable personality. 

• Flexibility to adapt to changes in the schedule. 

LEAD Peer Mentor Preferred Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of residence hall policy/experience enforcing policy. 

• Certification in first aid, CPR, and emergency procedures. 

• Identifies as a student of color, LGBTQ+ self-identifying students, low-income, and/or first-generation students. 

• Experience working in Camp Counselor positions. 

• Knowledge of DCA and its centers, staff, operations, etc.