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Mostly everyone wants to be accepted – and for a group of Collinsville High School (CHS) students, parents, family members and guardians, the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Upward Bound Program Acceptance Ceremony was especially sweet. 

Thirty-three students from the SIUE East St. Louis Center’s (ESLC) Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) program and 28 students from the Upward Bound Scholars Academy (UBSA) received acceptance certificates and letters in an observance on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at CHS. The celebration marked the beginning of the program year, which begins Monday, Nov. 18. Each UB program can enroll up to 60 students and are still recruiting. 

This is the first time that pre-collegiate programming is being offered at CHS, under the direction of the ESLC UB programs. The programs are for first-generation and/or low-income students, and the directors are Desiree Tyus (UBMS) and Yvonne Hart (UBSA). 

“You are taking important steps in obtaining your college goals. A goal without a plan is just a dream,” said Tyus to the auditorium of students, family and supporters. “This is your Donut Decision Day. A donut is delicious, of course, but it also is our first STEM lesson in geometry. 

“A donut is shaped in a circle, and like our program represents unity, inclusivity and support. The middle is empty and that reminds us to clear our minds and be open to the vast opportunities that will be afforded to you through our TRIO programs.” 

“Upward Bound Math and Science is an interesting program with a lot of great benefits. I’m excited that the program is here, and we have a chance to participate,” said Michelle Owens, mother of Carlee Owens and guardian of Banelly Urbina, both 14. “They were thrilled to learn about the program. None of us went to college, and we thought it would be a good idea, especially with them being freshmen.” Owens was at the Acceptance Ceremony with her husband and mother. 

“They both want to go into the medical field. The chances for them to find jobs are better with a college degree. They will have more choices. Both of them have said they want to go to SIUE. I like that choice, because it’s close to home.” 

“This program will lead her into her future, as far as establishing what she wants to do, which is to become a nurse,” said Gwinetta Love, grandmother of 16-year-old Kayla Thomas, UBMS student. “She is an extremely intelligent, loyal, dedicated and respectable young lady. With God, her family and this program, she will go far. She is also excited about going on a college tour in the coming weeks.” 

“That’s one of the things that is so good about this program, it gives her the opportunity to broaden her horizons,” said SIUE alumna Linda Malone, family friend. “The program will help in acclimation. It is a good way to merge her into the University level, and challenge her at the same time.” 

Malone earned a dual degree in special education and elementary education from SIUE in 1973. Her niece, Areea Malone, was a UB student 40 years ago at the ESLC. 

“The circle of the donut also represents an educational journey that will never end,” said Tyus. “We are at the beginning of a lifelong journey. We are glad you’ve made a decision to start your journey with us.” 

Photos:
Collinsville High School students in the Upward Bound Math & Science program celebrate the beginning of their program during an Acceptance Ceremony. 

CHS students in the Upward Bound Scholars Academy program marked the start of their program year. 

Congratulating Kayla Thomas (UBMS student) are her grandmother Gwinetta Love (right) and family friend SIUE alumna Linda Malone (left).