Upward Bound is a federally funded program designed to motivate young people and help them develop the academic skills needed for success after high school.
The Virginia Highlands Community College program offers a variety of services to high school students during the academic year, including academic and career counseling, cultural enrichment activities and travel, tutoring, and personalized
educational planning. A summer program comprised of collaborative learning projects is offered on the VHCC campus.
High school students between the ages of 13 and 19 are eligible to participate in the Upward Bound Program at VHCC if they are:
- A first-generation college student. This means that neither parent earned a four-year college degree, or
- Classified as low income. To qualify, your annual taxable income must not exceed 150% of the poverty level as defined by the U.S. Department of Education.
High School Meetings • during the Academic Year
Upward Bound Counselors meet with students each week at their high school and provide academically focused workshops and activities. These workshops are designed to help students excel in their current classes and prepare for college. An occasional Saturday session may also be held on the VHCC campus.
Additionally, college visits and other cultural enrichment trips are planned throughout the year for program participants. These may include visits to museums, historical sites, sporting events, theater performances, and other
locations that provide opportunities for students to learn more about the world around them.
Summer Program • on the VHCC Campus
The four-six week summer program provides the perfect opportunity for students to become familiar with the VHCC campus and its faculty while participating in collaborative learning projects. Transportation is provided each day. The
goal of the summer program is to provide hands-on activities that teach students organizational, leadership, and research skills, plus time management and project development skills.
Contact Information
Director • Leigh Ann Adams, ladams@vhcc.edu or (276) 739-2506
Academic Coordinator • Stacey Dorton, sdorton@vhcc.edu or (276)739-2507
Administrative Assistant •Ella Ratcliffe, eratcliffe@vhcc.edu or (276) 739-2564
Individual Services
Tutoring and Academic Counseling are available throughout the year for any student in need.
Incomplete Applications will not be considered