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Fayetteville State University awarded $13.4M U.S. Department of Education GEAR UP Grant to expand college readiness programs

By Staff Report, posted Nov 3, 2025 on BizFayetteville.com

Photo provided by FSU

Fayetteville State University’s Office of College Access Programs received a $13.4 million award from the U.S. Department of Education on Sept. 26 to support the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative.

Developed in collaboration with schools and community partners, this initiative reinforces Fayetteville State’s dedication to expanding educational opportunities for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. A wide range of services—such as tutoring, mentoring, academic advising, career exploration, college visits and financial aid guidance—will be made available through GEAR UP. Students can also take part in Saturday academies, summer enrichment camps and workshops focused on student success, while families benefit from resources provided by the Parent Engagement Institute. Educators at participating schools will also have opportunities for professional development through the program.

“GEAR UP takes a holistic approach to student success,” said Kendra Simon-Hallums, director of GEAR UP at FSU, in a press release. “From instilling college and career readiness in middle school, to supporting academic achievement, to equipping educators and families with tools for success. Our goal is to guide students toward high school graduation and postsecondary education. We’re excited to expose them to opportunities they may never have imagined.” 

That comprehensive support is made possible through an extensive network of partners. The FSU GEAR UP partnership includes Cumberland County Schools, the Fayetteville and Cumberland parks and recreation centers, The Group Theory Inc., Steps to the Future LLC and the Uncommon Individual Foundation, all working together to deliver robust programming and student support across the region.

The Office of College Access Programs at FSU is committed to empowering traditionally underrepresented youth to prepare for, enter and complete post-secondary education. In addition to GEAR UP, the office administers several federally funded TRiO programs, including Talent Search, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math & Science and the Educational Opportunity Center. 

Students and families interested in learning more about how to GEAR UP with Fayetteville State University should visit the program’s webpage.

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