Four high school students from the University’s Upward Bound program have been named an “Outstanding Senior” by the Monroe County Council of Superintendents.
School counselors nominate one senior for each county high school based on character, service, and scholarship.
Trio Upward Bound is an academic and college preparatory program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Its purpose is to develop the skills and motivation necessary for students to successfully complete high school, become active community members, and succeed in college.
Rochester’s program was created in 2007. The Upward Bound students selected as an “Outstanding Senior” are from the University’s four target high schools: Luis Rodriguez (James Monroe High), Niyokwizigira Mawazo (Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High), April Worboys (Vanguard Collegiate High), and Giovanni Sutton (East High).
“To win these honors, students had to exhibit great character and a strong commitment to their school work demonstrated by good grades,” said Anthony Ploncynski-Figueroa, associate director of the David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity in Arts, Science and Engineering. “At Upward Bound, we work to help students strive to believe in themselves, to be great community members and to uncover their ability to be strong students academically. Upward Bound has challenged these students to do just that. We’re glad that we could help our students realize their potential.”
Rodriguez will attend Keuka College in Keuka Park, New York, this fall, while Mawazo will attend Nazareth College in Pittsford, a suburb of Rochester. Worboys is headed to Buffalo State, and Sutton will attend St. John Fisher College, also in Pittsford.
The program includes Upward Bound Classic and Upward Bound Math/Science. The Classic program includes exposure to cultural events, academic programs, and other educational activities; mentoring programs involving school teachers, faculty members from the University, college students, and other professionals; and a summer instructional component designed to simulate the college experience.
The Math/Science program features intensive instruction in both fields, including hands-on experience in laboratories, computer facilities, and field sites; tutoring and academic counseling services provided by undergraduate and graduate students; and a summer instructional component designed to simulate the college experience.
Since 2007, 94 percent of Upward Bound Classic students have graduated from high school, and 90 percent have enrolled in college, while 99 percent of Upward Bound Math/Science students have graduated high school and 96 percent have enrolled in college.
About 130 students take part in the University’s Upward Bound program each year.
