If you ever have the chance to visit the NCCEP office, you’ll notice that our walls are covered with amazing photographs of GEAR UP alumni, students, and educators. These images are a testament to the magic that happens when possibility, opportunity, and preparation collide. The transformational effect that GEAR UP can have on young people drives everything we do at NCCEP and these faces are a daily reminder of why we do it.

Emotions are high right now. Many are elated by the election results, while others are genuinely fearful of what the future holds. If we focus solely on education policy (as hard as that can be), we’re certainly entering a period of profound uncertainty. President-elect Trump has reiterated his call to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, and Project 2025 calls for the elimination of GEAR UP by name. Yet, assuming these outcomes as inevitable fails to account for the most important determining factor: you.

While we have no illusions about the challenges ahead, don’t forget that we have been here before. Every time GEAR UP’s survival has been on the line, our community has enthusiastically exercised its power, and we have prevailed. As an example, the prior Trump Administration proposed eliminating GEAR UP and the community met the challenge with clarity and purpose. Not only did the Republican-controlled Congress reject those proposals, but they increased GEAR UP funding by 13%.

GEAR UP enjoys bipartisan support for good reasons. And while the margin for error is slim, a truly pragmatic view suggests that if we all do our part, we can and will succeed. We will break down the nature of the challenges, opportunities, and our strategies in future Digests and on the Quad as the composition of Congress and the administration come into sharper focus. For now, we hope you will begin with two simple steps.

First, reflect upon the long line of advocates and champions that moved heaven and earth to create and sustain GEAR UP and embrace your place among them. While we will have many allies, this is our mantle to carry.

Second, accept that the assumptions of the past may not apply to the future. The many misconceptions about GEAR UP and our shared purpose present a barrier that every program will need to overcome, so begin a dialogue among your team. How does your GEAR UP program align or misalign with prevailing attitudes among your community and local leaders? What would persuade them that GEAR UP is worth their support? How should you adapt?

NCCEP is prepared to do everything it takes to succeed. As I take in the many photographs of our students and community that adorn our office, I take great comfort in knowing that the key to our continued success resides in you and our remarkable community. Your work, contributions, and advocacy will make all the difference.

In solidarity,

Alex

Alex Chough
President, NCCEP