Bronx gear up inspires (impactful new strategies for persistence, improvement, resilience, and engagement for students)

The Research Foundation of The City University of New York (RFCUNY), operating as Lehman College, received a $2.3 million 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) for the period of October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The Bronx GEAR UP INSPIRES (Impactful New Strategies for Persistence, Improvement, Resilience, and Engagement for Students) initiative will deliver comprehensive student support services to low-income secondary school students in the Bronx, New York.

Under this award, Lehman College will provide academic support, counseling, mentoring, financial aid information, and related supportive services designed to improve high school completion rates and postsecondary readiness among eligible students, including those with disabilities. The program addresses critical needs in college preparation and persistence by offering outreach, guidance, and resources to help students obtain their secondary school diplomas and prepare for success in postsecondary education, while also disseminating information to students and families regarding college financing options and the benefits of obtaining a postsecondary education.