Linda Frances Alexander Scholars Program

The Linda Frances Alexander Scholars Program (LFA) provides academic, social, and cultural enrichment for African, African-American and multi-racial students towards educational excellence in our competitive global society. Students enroll as new freshmen or transfers, and may participate through graduation. A week-long residential program kicks off the first year with a culturally supportive introduction to university life that includes goal-setting, leadership training, academic advising, and an introduction to university expectations. Linda Frances Alexander Scholars become campus and community leaders who exemplify successful scholarship within the Black tradition of educational achievement.

The services and activities of the program include:

• Individualized academic advising and support
• Success coaching and mentoring
• Quarterly seminars devoted to academic achievement and cultural exploration
• Weekly check-ins with program staff
• Comprehensive referrals to campus and community resources
• Meaningful social events
• A research and community service fair
• Advising towards post-graduate study and career exploration

Linda Frances Alexander was a strong advocate for African and African American students at UC Davis. Linda graduated from UC Davis in 1972 with a BA in Sociology, earning a Master’s in Education from CSUS. As a Retention Coordinator for the former Learning Skills Center, she played a major role in creating courses designed to increase the retention rates of African and African American students. In 1999, Linda assumed supervision of the African and African American Graduation Celebration. In 2004, she helped develop the African American Academic Theme Program that continues to this day in Leslie Campbell Hall. After 30+ years of service to the UC Davis Community, Linda retired in 2009. Her continuing commitment to diversity and educational excellence is a legacy that lives on in this program.