NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Greylock LEAD Academy, a Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) program to help new students integrate into college life, has completed its second expanded year thanks to continued support from Greylock Federal Credit Union (Greylock).

 

In 2023, Greylock pledged $100,000 to reimagine the College's LEAD Academy, allowing the program to grow from around 30 MCLA students each year to encompass each fall's new student cohort.

 

"Our LEAD program has a long history of being incredibly successful at boosting student retention rates," said MCLA President James F. Birge, Ph.D. "With help from Greylock, we are now seeing even greater success, with a remarkable retention rate this semester, just one year after implementing Greylock LEAD Academy."

 

LEAD, which stands for Leadership, Education, Action, and Development, is a success, leadership, and civic engagement program designed to help students develop leadership skills and the tools necessary for college, which they can immediately apply. From Aug. 25 to Sept. 3, this year's LEAD students participated in a holistic onboarding experience prior to the start of fall classes. 

 

The first five days provided a signature experience focused on leadership development, team-building, community-building, and workshops conducted by student leaders. In addition to these important components, the program provides a sense of belonging and connection for those new to campus.

 

The LEAD Program is organized by MCLA's Office of Civic and Community Engagement, led by Director Spencer Moser. 

 

"Through Greylock funding, we were able to enhance our leadership and team-building skills by bringing in outside experts," said Moser. 

 

He said many students who participated in last year's inaugural Greylock-funded LEAD Academy were excited to become this year's newest peer mentors.

 

"Greylock is proud to support such a successful program and be here to see it grow," said Jennifer Shumsky, Greylock assistant vice president, community support and events. "The LEAD Academy equips the next generation of leaders with the tools they'll need to thrive in their academic experiences and professional development. At Greylock, we believe in the power of financial wellness, and we're thrilled to provide support for the financial literacy presentation during the first five days of LEAD."