This September, GEAR UP Wyoming, a statewide initiative dedicated to preparing Wyoming students for success in college and beyond, celebrates National GEAR UP Week, Sept. 21–25. This occasion highlights over two decades of commitment to closing opportunity gaps and supporting academic achievement for Wyoming’s youth.
Celebrating National GEAR UP Week and 21 Years of Student Support
In celebration of National GEAR UP Week, the program in Natrona County will host a family-dinner-style event for GEAR UP participants, their parents, guardians, and families. This event is designed to inform, inspire, and support students on their path to postsecondary success. This is also an opportunity for parents to meet the GEAR UP staff who make it all possible.
For over two decades, GEAR UP Wyoming has collaborated closely with the Natrona County School District and Casper College to provide personalized academic advising, financial aid guidance, and meaningful resources that help students graduate high school and confidently pursue higher education.
This year GEAR UP has also expanded its student ambassador program to include four high school students who receive leadership training and volunteer their time to support initiatives like recruitment, after-school programming, and other events.
“GEAR UP is a helpful tool that will be there for you even after high school, and has become a huge part of my education,” says Takiyah, a current participant.
Another student described some of the benefits of the program, “GEAR UP has helped me grow as a person and to work hard in my classes and to understand how the grading system works.”
Gabe, a current college student, added, “GEAR UP has created a safe space for me to ask questions and explore what life after high school looks like.”
These voices represent the core mission of GEAR UP Wyoming — empowering students with knowledge, support, and confidence to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams.
As the program celebrates its 21st anniversary, it recommits to expanding access, strengthening partnerships, and supporting Wyoming students every step of the way toward college and career readiness.
As part of this commitment, GEAR UP would like to highlight its increased involvement in community events and its season of open enrollment. They are aiming to increase the number of participants to make this the best year yet. Anyone who is curious about college or student success is encouraged to reach out and see how GEAR UP can support them in reaching their goals.
For more information about GEAR UP Wyoming and details on how families can participate in upcoming events, please visit Casper College GEAR UP or email the office at gearup@caspercollege.edu.
About GEAR UP Wyoming
GEAR UP Wyoming is a federally funded program in Wyoming dedicated to increasing the number of low-income students prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Through collaboration with schools, families, and community partners, GEAR UP, which stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, offers academic support, college exploration, financial aid assistance, and mentoring opportunities statewide.
Written by Alaura Tuft, GEAR UP case manager, and Skylar Gilmore, GEAR UP work-study.
At a Glance
- News Focus
- Statewide celebration of National GEAR UP Week marking 21 years of expanding college access, student mentoring, and postsecondary preparation.
- Launch of open enrollment season and community outreach initiatives for new participants.
- Key Participants
- GEAR UP Wyoming, Natrona County chapter at Casper College.
- Natrona County School District.
- Alaura Tuft, GEAR UP Case Manager.
- Skylar Gilmore.
- Student Ambassadors and participating secondary and collegiate students.
- Key Takeaways and Opportunities
- Program expansion includes four high school student ambassadors receiving leadership training and volunteering for recruitment and after-school programming.
- Hosted a family dinner event connecting participants, parents, and program staff.
- Families and students seeking college readiness and financial aid support can enroll online at caspercollege.edu/gearup or by contacting gearup@caspercollege.edu.
