National GEAR UP Week was such a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students, families, and communities come together. Thank you to everyone who made it such a success!

In Michigan, nearly 1,700 students gathered for the first-ever Statewide GEAR UP Kick-Off to College, where more than 150 seniors received on-site admissions, some with instant acceptances. Alumni shared their stories, inspiring students to see themselves as the next generation of college graduates.

In Florida, Miami GEAR UP brought students, teachers, and staff together in a spirited celebration. In Texas, Jubilee Academies GEAR UP! students heard from Jacob Tobey, the voice of the San Antonio Spurs, who encouraged them to turn their passion into a profession.

Programs also raised their voices through advocacy, with 27  proclamations issued nationwide—from Oregon to Wyoming, New Jersey to Texas—demonstrating strong support for GEAR UP.

National GEAR UP Week may be behind us, but the energy, hope, and belief in students’ futures will carry us forward. Thank you for celebrating with us and for continuing to build a culture of access, equity, and opportunity. 

Let's keep the energy and initiatives going by planning to attend the upcoming Discussion Lab: Continuing the Momentum of National GEAR UP Week in Student Programming.  Join us on Thursday, October 30th, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET to brainstorm and share ideas on how to sustain this momentum throughout the year in all student programming.  Click here to sign up today!