About Us

The WellsLink Leadership Program is named after Barry L. Wells, founder of Syracuse University’s Office of Minority Affairs in 1976 and former Syracuse University’s Senior Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs. The theoretical foundations, structural rationale and institutional support of the program was developed under the leadership of Dr. James K. Duah-Agyeman and Paul M. Buckley.

A winner of the NASPA Excellence Award, the WellsLink Leadership Program is an academic excellence and leadership program for first-year students not already sponsored by athletics or state and federally-funded programs. Through a series of structured academic, social, and cultural enrichment activities, WellsLink scholars are poised for success and leadership at Syracuse University. The goal of the program is to give students an “edge” in college, offering them the tools necessary to achieve their academic goals, develop professionalism, and expand their awareness of valuable resources and opportunities.


Participants of The WellsLink Leadership Program will enjoy two semesters of support, and upon their successful transition into the second year, they join an exclusive community of WellsLink alumni who will be recognized by faculty, staff, and peers as high achievers and community leaders.

Is the WellsLink Leadership Program For You?

The WellsLink Leadership Program is not for everyone. The program seeks students with a willing heart and drive for excellence.The program is specifically designed for students who are willing to trust our team of professionals and student leaders, as we guide them through their first-year experience at Syracuse University.

To Qualify, You Must:
  • Have received a formal application in the Ready Set packet;
  • Be a first-year student at Syracuse University;
  • Be a member of a historically underrepresented racial
    minority group in the United States, i.e. African American, Asian American, Latino/a, or Native/Indigenous;
  • NOT already be sponsored by a federal or state program such as HEOP, SSSP, CSTEP, or an athletic program.

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