Mid-michigan gear up

Davenport University received a $1.43M Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education under the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP, CFDA 84.334) on October 1, 2025, with completion targeted for September 30, 2026. The Mid-Michigan GEAR UP initiative provides comprehensive support services to low-income secondary students in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area to improve high school completion rates and college readiness. Services delivered under this award include academic support, college counseling and mentoring, financial aid information, outreach services, and related supportive interventions designed to reduce high school dropout risk and the need for remedial postsecondary education.

This partnership-based grant positions Davenport University to work collaboratively with local educational agencies to serve eligible students, including those with disabilities, and their families. The program aligns with GEAR UP's broader mission to increase postsecondary enrollment and success among underrepresented populations by providing early awareness and preparation activities throughout secondary school. Davenport University is managing this award as part of its portfolio of three active GEAR UP and FIPSE initiatives totaling approximately $3.5M through the Office of Postsecondary Education.