Concord University is receiving a federal Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) partnership grant for seven years totaling more than $20 million (about $2.9 million per year). Concord, in partnership with New River Community and Technical College, will serve students in Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming County schools.
James Monroe Students Spotlight GEAR UP SWV Impact Through Award-Winning Video
For Immediate Release
Athens, W.Va. – Students at James Monroe High School say GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) is making a real difference in their lives, and they didn’t just say it, they showed it.
Under the guidance and support of Monroe County GEAR UP SWV Local Coordinator Katie Mann, students Olivia Lankford, Skylar Brubaker, and Havannah Kast created a video highlighting how the program is helping them and their peers prepare for the future. Motivated by their own experiences, the students’ message in the video focused on increased college awareness, stronger leadership skills, and greater confidence in planning life after high school.
The students’ work resonated far beyond their school. The video earned first place in the Junior Varsity division of the “Inside Our Schools” category at the West Virginia Educators Rising State Competition, held March 2–4, 2026.
Rather than simply completing a project, the students used the opportunity to tell an authentic story with a series of interviews grounded in growth and experiences. Their video captures how GEAR UP SWV is opening doors and helping students see new possibilities for themselves.
“This recognition is meaningful, but what stands out most is student testimonials,” said Program Director Sheila Womack. “The peer-to-peer conversations highlight their belief in what GEAR UP is doing because they’re experiencing it firsthand. It’s inspiring to know our work is having an impact on students, which inevitably means the future of our communities. That’s why GEAR UP SWV is so important.”
Throughout the competition, the students demonstrated confidence, collaboration, and a strong understanding of the importance of educational support programs like GEAR UP. Their first-place finish highlights both their individual efforts and the positive impact of opportunities available through GEAR UP SWV.
About Educators Rising
Educators Rising is a national career and technical student organization that supports middle school, high school, and college students interested in pursuing careers in education. Through hands-on learning experiences, leadership opportunities, and competitive events, students gain the skills needed to become future educators. Learn more at: https://educatorsrising.org
About the Educators Rising State Competition
The West Virginia Educators Rising State Competition brings together students from across the state to showcase their knowledge, creativity, and passion for education through a variety of competitive events. Categories like “Inside Our Schools” challenge students to explore and present real-world educational topics while developing communication and leadership skills. More information about the competition can be found here: https://wvde.us/career-technical-education/student-organizations/educators-rising/
This achievement is a moment of pride not only for the students and their school, but for the entire Monroe County community. For more information about other GEAR UP SWV student opportunities, contact Jeremy Wood at [email protected].
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 a $20.3 million, 50% cost-share program led by Concord University in partnership with New River Community and Technical College. This program is part of the national Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
The contents of this publication were developed under a grant from the U.S. Department of Education. However, the contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Education, and endorsement by the Federal Government should not be assumed.
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.
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Concord University is receiving a federal Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) partnership grant for seven years totaling more than $20 million (about $2.9 million per year). Concord, in partnership with New River Community and Technical College, will serve students in Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming County schools.
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Athens, W.Va. – GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Camp Grants. The funds provide students and their families with financial support to attend enriching, career-focused summer camps and activities. Designed…