Don’t miss what’s next! Get the details on the upcoming GEAR UP SWV event and how students and families can get involved.
Commitment to Graduate Events – Class of 2029
For Immediate Release
Oct. 17, 2024
Athens, W.Va. – GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) will host Commitment to Graduate events featuring nationally recognized clinical psychologist and motivational speaker Dr. Adolph Brown. Dr. Brown inspires students to take ownership of their education, commit to earning a high school diploma, and plan their path beyond graduation—whether through college, trade school, military service, or employment.
Who/When/Where:
- Thursday, September 25, 2025 – 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Bluefield High School Auditorium
- Mercer & Monroe County, as well as Westside 9th graders
- Friday, September 26, 2025 – 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Woodrow Wilson High School Auditorium
- Raleigh & Summers County, as well as Wyoming East 9th graders
Why: Dr. Brown’s high-energy sessions spark a culture in schools that celebrates the importance of graduation and lifelong learning. He connects with students in a way that gets them thinking about their personal, academic, and career goals—and leaves them excited about the future.
Additional Planning Details:
- Media is invited to arrive 30 minutes early or stay after the event for interviews
- If needed, media are also invited to collect still photos and B-roll of the actual event
- GEAR UP SWV staff will ensure students who can be photographed are identified
- Students, teachers, and GEAR UP SWV staff will be available for interviews upon request
- Media is encouraged to notify Jessica Doty (Lilly) of their intentions to attend
About GEAR UP SWV: GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) prepares students for success and careers after high school by providing tools, support, and real-world experiences. Serving the classes of 2028 and 2029 in Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming counties’ public schools, GEAR UP SWV also works with teachers, administrators, and families to strengthen the entire educational community.
GEAR UP SWV is part of the federal GEAR UP program, Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, a national grant program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. GEAR UP SWV is led by Concord University in partnership with New River Community and Technical College. Learn more at GEARUPSWV.org or by following GEAR UP SWV on social media.
GEAR UP SWV; securing a legacy of strength and resilience in Appalachia.
