VSU Kicks Off First Upward Bound Program

VALDOSTA - Valdosta State University will host a kick-off celebration for the first ever Upward Bound Program from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday June 21, in the Hugh C. Bailey Science Center.

Participating students will meet the program’s staff, peer mentors and university administrators, and learn more about Upward Bound goals, before touring campus locations they will frequent, like Reade Hall, Palms Dining and the University Center. The event will conclude with a cookout and meet and greet session with VSU students and staff members at the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs and Multicultural Affairs, 1208 N. Patterson St.

Upward Bound is a TRIO program funded by a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education with the goal of developing the skills and motivation necessary for students to succeed beyond high school. The summer session, which will last through August 1, includes a two-week on-campus living experience. The free program will also feature a variety of events; financial aid information and workshops; ACT/SAT preparation; academic classes; cultural activities; field trips and college campus visits. 


To be eligible for Upward Bound, a student must demonstrate strong interest in and potential for college admission; be first-generation college bound; show a strong desire to improve academically; and be enrolled at Valdosta High School. Students who are interested should call Upward Bound Director Dondraie Seay at (229) 259-2561 or e-mail dlseay@valdosta.edu . For more information, call VSU Equal Opportunity Programs and Multicultural Affairs at (229) 333-5463. A schedule is available at www.valdosta.edu/eopma/upwardbound .