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Keene State Receives Funds to Serve Underrepresented High School Students

Students in ASPIRE class

Keene State College is continuing its efforts to provide opportunity, support and encouragement for high school students from underrepresented populations in New Hampshire and Vermont through its Upward Bound Program. Now in its fourth year, and having served 265 students, the Program at Keene State inspires students and provides a way for them to build skills that will help them succeed and complete post-secondary education, whether studies take place at Keene State, or with another institution of higher education. Students in the Program live on the Keene State campus during the summer, and it is free for students who qualify.

“The Upward Bound Program is transformational for many students. Our staff have seen amazing success for the students who go through the program. We are grateful for the continued funding that will help many more students in the months to come,” said Laura Mielke, Associate Director of Upward Bound Programs.

Goals of the program are to prepare students to complete a rigorous high school program of study, help students apply to and enroll in college, improve academic and cultural skills, stimulate new areas of interest and help students grow leadership and self-improvement.

“Our work through this program is an important part of the college’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and equity. We are proud to serve students and to be a part of their growth for a bright future,” said Kristin Sweeney, Director of TRIO Programs, which includes Aspire, Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science.

The Upward Bound Program at Keene State serves students enrolled in several high schools in New Hampshire and Vermont, including Bellows Falls Union, Brattleboro Union, Fall Mountain Regional, Green Mountain Union, Hinsdale Middle/High School, Keene, Leland and Gray Union and Springfield.

All costs of the Program are financed by the US Department of Education, in the amount of $485,086.

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Contact Keene State College

1-800-KSC-1909
229 Main Street
Keene, New Hampshire 03435