The University of Georgia’s Division of Academic Enhancement has received a $1.31 million U.S. Department of Education grant to provide STEM-focused support to 60 students from Lincoln County High School and Green County High School. UGA’s TRIO Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS) program joins two recently renewed Upward Bound programs along with three other TRIO programs (Educational Talent Search, Student Support Services, and McNair Scholars). UBMS will build on the strong foundation of UGA’s TRIO programs, which have been housed in the Division of Academic Enhancement since 1978.

UBMS’s six-week summer program will host all 60 participants at the University in academic workshops and mini-courses to enhance their math and science skills, introduce them to the higher education learning environment, and allow participants to engage with UGA faculty across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Throughout the school year, participants receive individualized support from UBMS program specialists, who guide them along the pathway towards degree completion through tutoring, mentoring, cultural trips, and preparation for college entrance exams.

This grant was made possible by the collaboration with Dr. Tim Foutz, Meigs Distinguished Professor in the College of Engineering, and Dr. Tim Burg, Professor in Veterinary Biosciences and Diagnostic Imaging and Director of the Office of STEM Education, who provided invaluable support on envisioning campus partnerships and building the summer program’s curriculum.

Ms. Sonia Davis, the author of the grant proposal, serves as the Program Director of UBMS, along with the Division’s two other Upward Bound programs. As a proud Upward Bound alumna, Ms. Davis leads UGA’s Upward Bound programs in their mission to help low-income, first generation students realize pathways for postsecondary degrees.