Project Uplift celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday with a brunch at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel.
Since its creation in 1969, the program has provided over 35,000 rising high school seniors the opportunity to experience college life at UNC. The immersive two-day camp allows participants to stay on campus and interact with students, faculty and staff.
Project Uplift works to promote and increase access to higher education for students from backgrounds under-represented in post-secondary education, according to the University Office for Diversity and Inclusion website. Participants have the chance to immerse themselves in college life and experience the academic rigor and social climate of a four-year institution before graduating high school, the website says.
“Prior to this program, there were only a handful of students of color at Chapel Hill,” said Archie Ervin, co-chairperson of the Anniversary Advisory Committee. “Black student leaders at the time demanded that the University do something, but they could never have foreseen that this initiative would literally become the entryway for tens of thousands of students.”
During their stay, participants may attend mock college classes and information sessions that explore some of the majors offered through UNC.
The program also teaches students about college admissions and affordability in an effort to connect them with other four-year colleges and universities.
“Some of the perks of the program include SAT and ACT prep and a scholarship and aid session,” said Rachel Tates, the director of student access and success within the Office for Diversity & Inclusion.
Student counselors are also provided as an extra resource for participants hoping to learn more about Carolina.
“Typically about 60 percent of the students who participate apply to come to UNC, and of those, about 60 percent are admitted,” Tates said.
