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Sul Ross State University is celebrating the success of its Lobos LEAD program, which launched in Fall 2023.

Data shows that SRSU retained freshmen participating in the LEAD program from 2023 to 2024 at a rate 23.5 percent higher than their peers.

The program integrates academic resources, peer mentoring, financial literacy and community engagement opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded experience for students at Sul Ross.

LEAD, which stands for Learning, Earning, Assisting and Developing, was designed to provide holistic support for students and equip them with the tools to succeed academically, develop leadership skills, and foster a strong sense of community. The program creates a unique platform where students can:

  • Learn: Gain knowledge and skills through academic coursework and training.
  • Earn: Participate in on-campus employment opportunities, building real-world experience while reducing financial barriers to education.
  • Assist: Contribute to campus and community projects, fostering a sense of service and civic responsibility.
  • Develop: Enhance leadership, teamwork, and personal growth through mentoring and professional development workshops.

“The early success of Lobos LEAD is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff and student leaders,” said Dr. Kathy Stein, assistant dean for Student Success. “These are high impact practices to help them see Sul Ross as their home for their entire academic career.”

A cornerstone of the program is the Freshman Seminar course during which 20 student leaders were chosen to serve as peer mentors in Fall 2025. After preparation this spring, they will be paid a grant-funded stipend to identify and assist other students organically – when they see each other at the dining or residence halls or in the gym, for example.

In their fourth semester, the students will be paid to work as Lobo Ambassadors in enrollment and retention programs in departments that are matched with their degree programs and interests. As juniors, they will enroll in on-campus internships, supporting operations, presentations or research to prepare them for the workforce or for graduate school.

Participants will benefit from targeted mentorship, practical experience and the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the university and the community.

They will also become members of the National Society of Leadership and Success, thanks to a grant from the local Bechtel Fund that will cover the cost of their dues.

“After four years, we’ll continuously have 80 students who are working their way through a variety of different jobs while learning different skills that will make them more marketable, even as they develop their leadership capabilities,” said Dr. Stein. “We are seeing freshmen develop the confidence and skills they need to thrive in college and beyond. This program is setting a new standard for how we support our students from the moment they step onto campus.”

For more information about the Lobos LEAD Program, email kstein@sulross.edu.