Skip Navigation
*To search for student contact information, login to FlashLine and choose the "Directory" icon in the FlashLine masthead (blue bar).

Upward Bound Classic

Classic Group summer 11

Classic Academy

Upward Bound is a federal TRiO program providing pre-college and academic support services to first-generation, income-eligible students. The program enhances overall academic preparation, career exploration and access to college resources to assure participants will have an opportunity to obtain a post-secondary education.  The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and Kent State University.

What is the Upward Bound Classic Academy:

The Kent State University Upward Bound Classic Program has been in existence since 1971 and is a current partnership between the Kent State University, Barberton, Warren G. Harding, John R. Buchtel (Akron) High Schools, and those communities to promote college readiness and success. 

Students develop a strong academic background and thorough preparation for entrance into and persistence in postsecondary education. 

What is the Purpose:

The purpose of the program is to provide students who are first-generation college bound and meet income guidelines the preparation, support, and opportunities to successfully enter into postsecondary education. The Upward Bound Classic Academy has a specific emphasis on the field of business and partners with the Kent State College of Business.  Students do not have to have in interest in business to participate in the Classic Academy

Who qualifies for Participation:

118 total students from the target high schools of Barberton, John R. Buchtel and Warren G. Harding.  Students must meet the following criteria:

Upward Bound Classic Academy Benefits:

Students and parents/guardians benefit greatly through their commitment and participation in the program.   Benefits include:

  • Exposure to college majors, careers and expectations
  • Opportunities to learn about college environments and processes
  • Intensive academic support
  • Enrichment and skill development
  • Field trips, college visits and work study experiences
  • Parent Advisory Council
How are Services Delivered:

There are two components to the program – Academic Year and Summer Institute.

  • Academic Year:
    • Weekly Path To College Session
    • Academic support, mentoring and advising
    • Parent/guardian workshops
    • Field trips and campus visits

  • Summer Institute:
    • 6-week residential program at the University campus
    • Students attend targeted classes in the fields of math, business, Language, science
    • Students participate in intensive hands-on learning experiences, and field trips
    • Students engage in social and cultural activities designed to provide a holistic learning experience
Evidence of Success:

 The UB Classic Program has a long history of success:

  • 5 year high school graduation rate:  99%
  • 5 year postsecondary enrollment rate:  85% (does not include 09)
  • Of 5 year Kent State UB graduates, first time enrollment is Kent State:  56%
  • 4 year postsecondary persistence rate:  66%
  • Of those who enrolled into Kent State, persistence rate:  47.3%


For more information, contact:

Bonni-Richardson-Berry75x112_1         
Bonnie Richardson-Berry
Director, Upward Bound Classic Academy & Public Health 
bfrichar@kent.edu

Thomas Jefferson     
Thomas Jefferson
Associate Director, Classic Academy
tajeffer@kent.edu

 RiveraKrystle (2)
 Krystle Rivera
 Academic Coordinator, Classic Academy
 krivera2@kent.edu