Communications
USF Upward Bound Celebrates 60 Years While Expanding Summer Opportunities
The University of South Florida's Upward Bound (UB) and Upward Bound Math-Science (UBMS) programs officially launched their 2026 Summer Component in June, beginning six weeks of academic enrichment, leadership development, and college preparation for approximately 100 students from across Hillsborough County.
The summer experience began with a week-long virtual orientation and academic preparation program and continues through mid-July with daily programming designed to help students strengthen their academic skills, explore career pathways, and prepare for post-secondary success. Participants will also take part in a six-day residential experience on the USF campus, providing students with an immersive college-going experience that fosters independence, confidence, and personal growth.
This summer holds special significance as USF Upward Bound celebrates its 60th anniversary. Established in 1966 as part of the original federal TRIO initiative, the program has spent six decades helping first-generation and income-eligible students pursue higher education and achieve their academic and career aspirations. Throughout its history, Upward Bound has impacted thousands of students, in its mission to expand educational opportunity and support student success.
In addition to serving its own participants, USF Upward Bound continues to serve as a hub for innovative summer programming and experiential learning. This year, students and staff from Georgia State University, Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC), and Impact Education Upward Bound will join portions of the summer experience at USF. These collaborations provide valuable opportunities for students to connect with peers from across the country, experience life at a major research university, and engage in unique academic and leadership activities.
USF will also host the 2026 Florida TRIO Olympics, bringing together TRIO students from across the state for a multi-day event centered on teamwork, leadership, friendly competition, and college access. The event highlights the values of perseverance, achievement, and educational opportunity that have defined the TRIO movement for generations.
Several enhancements have been incorporated into this year's summer program, including expanded career exploration opportunities, increased exposure to artificial intelligence applications, enhanced leadership development programming, and strengthened college and career readiness activities. Through partnerships with the Muma College of Business, USF Health, the Department of Chemistry, Career Services, Undergraduate Admissions, and an Underwater Robotics program, students will participate in hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning to future educational and career pathways.
As USF Upward Bound celebrates 60 years of transforming lives through educational opportunity, the program continues to exemplify excellence within the TRIO community while preparing the next generation of scholars, leaders, and professionals for success in college and beyond.