US Department of Education re-funds Harding University Upward Bound program

The U.S. Department of Education has re-funded Harding University’s Upward Bound program for the upcoming five-year grant cycle.

The program will receive a $287,811 grant totaling over the five years. This funding will allow an increase in the program from 55 to 65 students per year.

The Upward Bound program serves to generate the skills and motivation necessary to complete a program of secondary education and to enter and succeed in a program of postsecondary education. Upward Bound has been a federally funded program at Harding University since 1995.

Students participate in a six-week summer residential program on Harding’s campus. During the school year, participants meet on campus two Saturdays per month for academic tutoring and cultural enrichment. Upward Bound also provides after school tutoring at the participating high schools.

“I look forward with anticipation as Harding continues to serve low income and potential first generation college students at target high schools in White and Woodruff Counties,” program Director Katrina Smeltzer said. These high schools include Pangburn, Riverview, White County Central, Bald Knob, Augusta and McCrory.

Summer Academy classes will be held June 4-July 13. A four-day educational trip to Dallas will be included in the curriculum.

With an enrollment of more than 7,100 students, Harding is the largest private university in Arkansas and attracts more National Merit Scholars than any other private university in the state. Harding also maintains campuses in Australia, Chile, England, France, Greece, Italy and Zambia. For more information visit www.harding.edu.