Fayetteville State Awarded $13.4 Million U.S. Department of Education GEAR UP Grant to Expand College Readiness Programs
The award reinforces FSU’s leadership in creating college-readiness opportunities and community partnerships that improve student outcomes.
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Fayetteville State University’s Office of College Access Programs received a $13.4 million award from the U.S. Department of Education on Sept. 26 to support the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative.
Beginning in middle school, students will have access to a continuum of college preparation and support during their first year of college through the university’s seven-year federal grant. Developed in collaboration with schools and community partners, this initiative reinforces Fayetteville State’s dedication to expanding educational opportunities for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
A wide range of services—such as tutoring, mentoring, academic advising, career exploration, college visits, and financial aid guidance—will be made available through GEAR UP. Students can also take part in Saturday academies, summer enrichment camps, and workshops focused on student success, while families benefit from resources provided by the Parent Engagement Institute. Educators at participating schools will also have opportunities for professional development through the program.
“GEAR UP takes a holistic approach to student success,” said Kendra Simon-Hallums, director of GEAR UP at FSU. “From instilling college and career readiness in middle school, to supporting academic achievement, to equipping educators and families with tools for success. Our goal is to guide students toward high school graduation and postsecondary education. We’re excited to expose them to opportunities they may never have imagined.”
That comprehensive support is made possible through an extensive network of partners. The FSU GEAR UP partnership includes Cumberland County Schools, the Fayetteville and Cumberland parks and recreation centers, The Group Theory Inc., Steps to the Future LLC, and the Uncommon Individual Foundation, all working together to deliver robust programming and student support across the region.
The strength of these partnerships reflects a larger trend at Fayetteville State, as the university continues to earn recognition and resources to expand college access and promote achievement. In September, the Lloyd College of Health, Science, and Technology received a $2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to support retention and achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines.
Earlier this month, FSU was awarded $2 million through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, funded by the Lilly Endowment, to advance the university’s 30-60-90 Summer School Program, which helps students stay on track toward degree completion. Collectively, these investments position the university as a leader in expanding access, improving readiness, and advancing long-term student outcomes for students from all backgrounds.
The Office of College Access Programs at FSU is committed to empowering traditionally underrepresented youth to prepare for, enter, and complete post-secondary education. In addition to GEAR UP, the office administers several federally funded TRiO programs, including Talent Search, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math & Science, and the Educational Opportunity Center.
Students and families interested in learning more about how to GEAR UP with Fayetteville State University should visit the program’s webpage.