About

The Mizzou Black Women’s Initiative (MBWI) is a one-year student success programs open to first-year undergraduate students at the University of Missouri

Objectives

The program focuses on a holistic approach to student success through course curriculum, experiential learning, individual coaching, and peer mentorship. Each initiative seeks to foster growth and development opportunities that lead to a successful transition to Mizzou, retention and persistence of undergraduate students pursuing their academic, professional, and personal goals.

Guiding Pillars:

  • Academic Success
  • Identity & Sense of Belonging
  • Career Exploration & Readiness

Students explore the program’s pillars through:

  • SSC 1150 (FA) and EDLPA 3100 (SP) course curriculum (can earn up to 4 credit hours)
  • Cohorts of 20-25
  • Peer Mentorship
  • 1:1 Student Success Coaching
  • Participation in academic access & leadership opportunities
  • Exposure to campus resources and activities
  • Networking events with faculty/staff, and community leaders and more.

Contact and Apply

MBWI aims to assist first-year students who identify as Black women in making a successful transition within the University of Missouri, both academically and personally.

To apply for the 2023-2024 cohort: click here.

If you have any questions about the MBWI program contact Program Instructor, Velma Buckner at bucknerv@missouri.edu.

The MBWI program, each year, includes up to 35 undergraduate participants that engage in coursework, training, events, workshops, social activities, alternative spring breaks and much more. Your support will help to ensure Mizzou’s ability to continue these types of programs to future diligent and hardworking young women. If you would like to donate to the MBWI Alternative Trip you may contribute your gift here.