Date:
8/19/2004
Contact: Wendel Sloan at 505.562.2253
Reporter: Scarlet Smith
PORTALES—Upward Bound and Eastern New Mexico University in Portales recently took 34 students from the surrounding area for a five-day tour of Washington, D.C. The students visited the Smithsonian Museums, Washington Monument, Arlington National Cemetery and much more. For many of the students it was their first time to fly, making the trip even more of an adventure. "Quote from Student"
Upward Bound is dedicated to promoting first generation college students in which neither parent/guardian received a four-year degree from a post-secondary institution and low-income students access to higher education. Upward Bound is not an "at-risk program,"--students must have at least a GPA of 2.5. The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Education and implemented through ENMU; the program has been in existence for over 38 years and consists of more than 700 projects across the United States.
During the summer, Upward Bound students attend an intensive six-week residence program at ENMU. This experience includes daily academic classes, academic advising, cultural/social events, community projects, recreation and weekend trips.
"Going to Washington, D.C. was a wonderful experience for the students and staff. It was exciting to see some of the students' reaction to flying for the first time. Students absorbed the experience and strengthened the connections between their government and history classes to the actual experience in Washington, D.C. " said Ms. Susan Cramp, Upward Bound Director.
For more information about Upward Bound, please call the Upward Bound Office at 505.562.2452.