A few months ago, the GEAR UP community gathered in Washington, D.C. for the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Conference to Light the Way, remembering the many people who serve as light for GEAR UP: our educators, families, and students. This week, we pass that light forward and honor the people who make GEAR UP what it is.

Over the past couple of years, our work has been tested. GEAR UP has faced significant uncertainty and numerous challenges, threatening opportunities for over half a million students…

This September 18, NCCEP is proud to join ACAC's WhyApply Day, a nationwide celebration of the college application season, and share messages reminding students that applying to college is within reach. 

Here's how you can join in: 

• Wear your college gear on Friday, September 18
• Share why you believe students should apply to college, or tell your own story of why you applied
• Post on social media using #WhyApply and #GEARUPworks to add your voice to the movement 

Let's show students…