National TRiO Day celebration includes CState program at Mt. Healthy H.S.

In recognition of National TRiO Day on Feb. 28, 2021, Daily News is highlighting the TRiO programs at CState and the students they serve.

Cincinnati State’s TRiO-supported programs include a Traditional Upward Bound program at Mount Healthy Junior/Senior High School in Cincinnati.

Traditional Upward Bound (TUB) is a college prep program administered by Cincinnati State to help promising high school students successfully graduate from high school and attend the college of their choice.

TUB provides academic and career counseling, academic assistance, and guidance in making informed educational choices.

Alejandro Hernandez will graduate from Mt. Healthy H.S., with honors, in May 2021, and at the same time will be completing his Associate of Arts degree from Cincinnati State.

Next, Alejandro will attend Ohio State University, majoring in finance and pre-law. He has received the national Chick Evans Scholarship, which will cover his tuition and room and board.

Alejandro is the youngest of three brothers. His older brothers also participated in the Upward Bound program and then continued their education at Ohio State.

Alejandro said, “Upward Bound has simply been a blessing. It has been a support system for me, and my family away from home.”

“Upward Bound has helped me in all facets of my life– academically, ethically, and finding my future. I am so happy that I joined, and I hope more people find its benefits,” he added.

Allyson Knue, an Upward Bound Academic Specialist, said, “Alejandro was a standout student from the start of his freshman year. He has true drive to achieve his goals and he’s not afraid of a challenge!”

Allyson added, “Alejandro has integrity and empathy, while being approachable and funny. He offers encouragement and advice to classmates dealing with difficult situations, from a place of genuine care for their well-being. It’s obvious that other students look up to him.”

The Upward Bound program at Mt. Healthy serves students in grades 9-12. At least two-thirds of the participating students’ parents do not have a bachelor’s degree and meet Federal income requirements.

• TUB staff members meet with students three days a week, after school, for tutoring and academic assistance. Once a week, students participate in a seminar covering topics such as career exploration, leadership development, communication skills, financial literacy, and more.
   
• Students also receive support working on college admission applications as well as financial aid and scholarship applications.

During the previous grant period, the Upward Bound program assisted 63 Mt. Healthy students.

For more information about Cincinati State’s TRiO programs, visit the College Access Programs page of the College website.