As we quickly approach the end of the academic semester and calendar year, I would like to take a moment to update our community about the GEAR UP program—Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs.
Operated by the Center for Educational Outreach (CEO), this multi-year, federally-funded, national grant program is designed to support and increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.
Over six years, the CEO staff will work with 975 GEAR UP students, both individually and in groups, to help them build the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to succeed at the postsecondary level. On a broader scale, GEAR UP will also help the University develop more awareness surrounding the factors and challenges that limit college readiness and success among specific populations.
Through the University’s involvement in this program and these students’ journeys, we will have the opportunity to:
- Examine the root causes of student barriers to postsecondary education.
- Facilitate the completion of a rigorous college-prep curriculum.
- Provide extensive academic and social support to students.
- Engage with students and their families about the value of higher education.
- Guide students and families throughout the college search, application and enrollment processes.
On February 23, 2022, CEO will host a hybrid (in-person and virtual) University Outreach Council (UOC) event where individuals can learn more about the GEAR UP program at U-M Ann Arbor and other institutions.
Additionally, if you are interested in learning about ways to connect with GEAR UP through collaborative grant efforts and student engagement, complete this form or visit ceo.umich.edu/gearup.
Sincerely,
Robert M. Sellers
Vice Provost for Equity & Inclusion
Chief Diversity Officer
Charles D. Moody Collegiate Professor of Psychology