During each NCCEP/GEAR UP Capacity-Building Workshop (CBW), we start our days with an energizing Burst session to fill our cups and set us up for a day of learning and engagement. This year is no different. 

On Monday, you'll hear from Michael M. Crow, president of Arizona State University and co-author of The Fifth Wave: The Evolution of American Higher Education. His remarks will address the culprit of many difficulties we face today: the COVID-19 global pandemic. With a focus on looking forward, he will shine a light on how to not only survive, but to thrive in the education landscape despite complicated and unexpected trials.

Tuesday, Dr. Gholnecsar (Gholdy) Muhammad, associate professor of Language and Literacy at Georgia State University, will share how to clearly define culture, equity, anti-racism, and culturally and historically responsive education. You'll be challenged to consider your own cultural identities and approaches to learning the cultures and identities of students.

Dr. David Rivera, associate professor of counselor education at Queens College-City University of New York (CUNY) and founding director of CUNY’s LGBTQI+ Student Leadership Program, will start Wednesday by focusing on how to support our students' wellness. His strategies are focused on the students we serve in our GEAR UP communities as they navigate the current crises and beyond.

Each day of the 2021 CBW will start with important, inspirational messages meant to help us navigate our work during an incredibly challenging time. We look forward to gathering from February 8-10 for three days of learning and an opportunity for us to grow the GEAR UP movement and create momentum to drive toward a better future for all.  #GEARUPWorks