The Dorsey Leadership Academy is designed to help foster more inclusive equitable learning environments and professional fields.
Goals
- To support students in the College of Education & Human Development to successfully navigate the undergraduate experience as thriving, active members
- To engage historically underrepresented and socioeconomically disadvantaged students in the College of Education & Human Development and help them to thrive professionally and within the College
- To develop distinguished leaders with expertise and experience in research, leadership, and cultural competence
- To provide support to students who traditionally may be less familiar with college and the college process
Benefits
- Supportive network of peers across degrees, levels and emphasis areas
- Mentorship from college faculty and staff
- Collaboration with community partners
- Guidance to navigate new experiences
- Opportunities for academic enrichment
Scholarships
Members of Dorsey Leadership Academy are invited to apply for an annual scholarship award package of up to $8,000 (renewable for an additional three years when requirements are met.)
Minimum eligibility qualifications
- Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Educational Studies, or Bachelor of Science in Human Development & Family Science
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Enrollment at MU the first semester after high school graduation
- Member of a underrepresented group (in order to achieve the educational benefits of a diverse student body)
- Completion of FAFSA, MU Annual Scholarship Application, and Dorsey Scholarship Application

As Associate Professor of Higher Education, Dr. Carolyn Ann Dorsey was the first African-American faculty member in the College of Education at the University of Missouri. Dr. Dorsey authored several notable works including “The African American Educational Experience” from the book, The African American Experience: An Historiographical and Bibliographical Guide, by Arvarh E. Strickland and Robert E. Weems Jr.