GEAR UP Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Casper College GEAR UP, along with GEAR UP Wyoming, will be celebrating their 20th Anniversary as part of National GEAR UP week, Sept. 22-26.
“For two decades, GEAR UP Wyoming has collaborated closely with the Natrona County School District and Casper College to provide personalized academic advising, financial aid guidance, and meaningful resources that help students graduate high school and confidently pursue higher education,” said Andrea Covert, GEAR UP regional director.
To celebrate the milestone locally, Casper College GEAR UP will host a series of family-centered events for GEAR UP participants designed to inform, inspire, and support students on their path to postsecondary success. “From trivia and games focused on financial aid to college prep workshops and family dinners, the week is designed to foster community, answer questions, and break down barriers to higher education,” Covert said.
Three current GEAR UP participants noted how GEAR UP has helped them. “GEAR UP Wyoming has helped me on my path to graduate high school by giving me different ideas on how to choose a college best fit for me, taught me ways to cope with the stress of high school and the pressure of college as well,” shared Samantha.
Esperanza said the program was “… worth it since I was able to get help on questions that I had about college and how to get to the goal of going to college. Along with providing academic support to keep me going.” Ziletai added, “They have always communicated with me about the steps I need to take after high school and encouraged me to continue studying.”
“These voices represent the core mission of GEAR UP Wyoming — empowering students with knowledge, support, and confidence to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams,” noted Covert.
For more information about GEAR UP Wyoming and details on how families can participate in upcoming events, please visit the Casper College GEAR UP site or email GEAR UP or contact gearup@caspercollege.edu.
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs — GEAR UP, for short — is a statewide federally-funded program that serves seventh through 12th-grade income-eligible students every year. The program is dedicated to increasing the number of low-income students prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Through collaboration with schools, families, and community partners, GEAR UP offers academic support, college exploration, financial aid assistance, and mentoring opportunities statewide.