The Upward Bound Program serves high school students who are low-income, first-generation, or who demonstrate an academic need. We currently partner with East Duplin High School, Wallace-Rose Hill High School, and James Kenan High School to provide support and opportunities for their students.

Our mission is to equip participants with the skills, guidance, and encouragement they need to pursue higher education with confidence. Success is measured when students go on to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, opening doors to greater opportunities for their future.

SERVICES WE OFFER

  • Stipends
  • Tutoring
  • Instruction in core classes
  • College Campus Tours
  • Cultural Field Trips
  • Enrichment Activities
  • Transportation
  • SAT/ACT preparation
  • Counseling

WORKSHOPS

September 25, 2025: Senior Meeting
October 1-2, 2025: SAT Preparation
November 4, 2025: Evening with The Director

SATURDAY ACADEMIES

October 4, 2025: Rockin’ Mandalas
October 25, 2025: Focus and Frame: A Photography Lesson
November 8, 2025: The Power of #First
November 22, 2025: High Key Dessert
December 6: 2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast
December 13, 2025: Handmade Holidays

TUTORING

– Tuesdays at James Kenan High School during Lunch and Learn
– Wednesdays at Wallace-Rose Hill High School during Dawg Time
– Thursdays at East Duplin High School during Lunch and Learn

PROGRAM INFORMATION

ACTIVITIES

WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING

Upward Bound motivated me to believe I could reach for the stars and accomplish my dreams.

-Wilmer Reyes-Rosales

The program gave me support, memorable experiences, and the motivation to keep going!

-Katherine Mendoza

From freshman year to now, Upward Bound helped me grow, succeed, and believe in my future.

-Genesis Espinoza Sevilla

From fun trips to New York to real help with college applications and FAFSA, Upward Bound gave me the support I needed to succeed.

-Angelo Ortiz-Oliva

OUR STAFF

OUR LOCATION

Strickland Student Center
James Sprunt Community College
133 James Sprunt Dr.
Kenansville, NC 28349

Resources for Students & Families

Eligible Students

Eligble Students must meet the following requirements

  • Current High School Freshman (9th), Sophomore (10th), or Junior (11th) with a minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Demonstrates a need for academic support
  • Must qualify as either a low-income or potential first-generation college student
  • Must enroll in a post-secondary education program upon graduation from High School.

Feedback

Please feel free to provide any feedback about Upward Bound by clicking the feedback button below. This inculdes providing feedback on faculty, program content, or any other comments or concerns.