Delta State's Burchfield selected for prestigious L.E.A.D. Bolivar County program
Cleveland, MS (02/24/2026) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4678
Email: nduff@deltastate.edu
Delta State's Burchfield selected for prestigious L.E.A.D. Bolivar County program
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University is proud to announce that Mallory Burchfield, Director of Foundation Relations, has been accepted into the 2026 cohort of the Bolivar County L.E.A.D. program. Burchfield was selected based on her professional leadership, longstanding community involvement and commitment to strengthening both Delta State and the Cleveland community she calls home.
L.E.A.D. Bolivar - Leadership Education Action Development - is a comprehensive community leadership program designed to equip participants with the knowledge, relationships and real-world insight needed to strengthen our region. Through immersive sessions, hands-on experiences and meaningful dialogue, class members gain a deeper understanding of the industries, institutions and people that drive progress across Bolivar County.
With a bachelor's degree from Mississippi State and an MBA from Delta State, Burchfield has lived in Cleveland for nearly eight years and considers it home. Her service to the community reflects that commitment. She currently serves as Main Street chair on the Chamber Board's executive committee, RISE League vice president, Exchange Club board member and Bolivar County Emergency Food and Shelter Program board member. She is a past president of the Crosstie Committee, a four-year Bayou Pom Squad coach, Phi Mu Honor Advisor at Delta State and a Staff Council member and Projects Committee chair.
"Through this program, I hope to build meaningful connections with other local leaders and gain a deeper understanding of how our county operates, from economic development and government to education, healthcare and industry," Burchfield said. "I am especially excited about the opportunity for hands-on learning, behind-the-scenes experiences and the chance to broaden my perspective on the issues and opportunities shaping Bolivar County."
Burchfield joins a cohort of professionals focused on supporting continued growth and opportunity across Cleveland and Bolivar County.
"We are thrilled that Mallory has been selected for L.E.A.D. Bolivar. Her dedication to service, passion for community and strong commitment to leadership embody the spirit of this program," said Dr. Suzette Matthews, Vice President for University Advancement and Executive Director of the Delta State University Foundation. "I have no doubt this experience will broaden her perspective, strengthen her connections across Bolivar County and further enhance the impact she already makes at Delta State and throughout the Cleveland community."
Cutline: DSU's Mallory Burchfield will join with other community leaders in the Bolivar County L.E.A.D. program to identify opportunities for service and growth.
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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,800 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
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DSU’s Mallory Burchfield will join with other community leaders in the Bolivar County L.E.A.D. program to identify opportunities for service and growth.
Delta State University
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