Troy University’s TRIO-Upward Bound program, which helps students succeed in high school and navigate the transition to college, has been funded by the U.S. Department of Education for the next five years of operation.

Over the next five years, the program will receive $1.88 million in funding. The five-year extension is the maximum awarded by the department.

“The renewal of our Upward Bound grant for this multi-year period is a reflection of the hard work and dedication by our UB staff,” said Dr. Hal Fulmer, associate provost and dean of first-year and undergraduate studies. “Mary Griffin, Bridgette Anderson, Ashleigh Johnson and our tutors are making a real difference in the lives of the high school students we’re serving.  We’re changing future generations with these efforts.  Upward Bound has been at Troy University for a number of years and it’s great to know we have years ahead of us to help the students.”

The program, which has been in operation at Troy University since 1992, serves more than 90 students annually from three participating Pike County high schools, providing academic, counseling, social and recreational activities designed to build the academic skills, motivation and self-confidence necessary for success in college. Upward Bound programs are offered free of charge to students from low-income, first-generation college families.

“The Troy University Upward Bound (UB) staff is truly grateful to have been awarded funding for five additional years,” said Mary J. Griffin, director of TRIO Programs at TROY.  “The services provided to UB students and parents have truly made a positive impact. We encourage our students to always do their best at whatever they undertake.  Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our TRIO staff, we feel that Upward Bound opens the world to our students.”

Samantha Lee, an alumna of the program, said Upward Bound provided her with the support necessary to succeed in college.

“Upward Bound provided me with a better understanding of college life and really prepared me for my transition from high school to college,” Lee said. “Every teacher was invested in my future and wanted me to prosper, and because of that, I did. I not only made friends, but I left with a family; a family I knew would always be there no matter the length of time or the distance apart.”