TRIO Upward Bound Graphic

Wittenberg University is the host to the TRIO Upward Bound Program. Congress established a series of programs to help low-income families to enter college, graduate and move on to participate more fully in America’s economic and social life. These Programs are funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and are referred to as the TRIO Programs (initially just three programs). TRIO Programs help students overcome class, social and cultural barriers to a post-secondary education. There are several Federal TRIO Programs, and they can be identified as: Educational Opportunity Centers, Ronald E. McNair Program, Student Support Services, Talent Search, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math-Science, and Veterans Upward Bound.

The Mission of Upward Bound

Our nation has asserted a commitment to providing educational opportunity for all students regardless of ethnicity or economic circumstance.  Therefore, Upward Bound gives the high school student an opportunity to learn first-hand what college life is all about as well as implementing academic programs to ensure the student’s educational success.

Upward Bound Activities

Upward Bound has two components, the academic component of the Program is implemented the months of September through May. During this time Upward Bound students are in weekly contact with Upward Bound staff members, teachers, and tutor-counselors through classes, home visits, counseling sessions, and tutorial sessions. In addition, students will have the opportunity to attend college visitation tours, cultural enrichment activities, and career day events.

During the six-week summer component, which is implemented the months of June and July, students can live on the campus and participate in a variety of academic classes, various workshops, and social/cultural activities. In addition, students will have the opportunity to participate in college fairs. All programs and services are provided free of charge.

Upward Bound Staff Members

Contact Information:

Hollenbeck Hall 112
(937) 327-7535
upward-bound@wittenberg.edu

Phyllis Swanigan

Mrs. Phyllis Swanigan
Program Director
(937) 327-7537
pswanigan@wittenberg.edu

Shawn Jackson

Shawn Jackson
Assistant Director
(937) 327-7539
jacksons4@wittenberg.edu

Eddie L. Chambers

Mr. Eddie L. Chambers
Former Program Director (Retired)
Grant Writer/Database Manager
(937) 605-3031
echambers@wittenberg.edu

Amanda White

Amanda White
Administrative Assistant

Bridge class of 2013 Video

Who is Eligible to Participate in Upward Bound?

  • Students who are recommended by teachers, counselors, social service agencies and others and are well acquainted with their academic potential for success in college.
  • Students either from low-income families or with parents who have not received a bachelor's degree.
  • Students who are citizens or nationals of the United States.
  • Students who are permanent residents of the United States.
  • Students who are enrolled at Springfield High School, located in Springfield, Ohio. However, other students from local area high schools will be considered provided they live within the City limits.
  • Students who are in the 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade.

TRIO Upward Bound Facts

  • An estimated 2 million students have graduated from college with the support and assistance of our nation's TRIO Programs.
  • TRIO graduates predominately attend four year colleges.
  • Students in the Upward Bound program are four times more likely to earn an undergraduate degree than those students from similar backgrounds who did not participate in the program.
  • Students in the TRIO Student Support Services program are more than twice as likely to remain in college than those students from similar backgrounds who did not participate in the program.

Postal Address: Upward Bound Program
Wittenberg University
P.O. Box 720
Springfield, Ohio 45504

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