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.
Some GEAR UP SWV Summer Camps Full as Registration Deadline Approaches
For Immediate Release
Athens, W.Va. – As the May 22 registration deadline approaches for GEAR UP SWV’s 2026 Summer Camps, some camps have already filled and are now accepting names for waiting lists, while some overnight opportunities still have space available for students interested in hands-on learning and college experiences.
Among the camps still accepting registrations is Concord Cool Academy: Tracks to the Future, an overnight experience held June 16–19 at Concord University in Athens, West Virginia. Students can choose from career-focused tracks, including Fine Arts, Creative Writing, Education, Sports Medicine, and Nursing. Cool Speak, a youth engagement company, will lead other activities focused on college readiness, social media branding, and leadership development.
The GEAR UP SWV / WVU Tech STEM Camp, scheduled for June 29 through July 1 in Beckley, is also accepting registrations. The overnight camp allows students to live on campus while participating in hands-on environmental science and STEM activities designed to build curiosity, confidence, and career awareness.
“These camps allow students to explore future careers while experiencing life on a college campus,” said Interim IHE Coordinator Jenn Frame. “The strong response this year shows students are excited for opportunities that are engaging, educational, and connected to their future goals.”
Families are encouraged to register soon, as camp availability may continue to change leading up to the May 22 deadline.
For additional information about Concord Cool Academy, families may contact Jenn Frame at [email protected] or (304) 384-6229. For information about the WVU Tech STEM Camp, families may contact Dr. Nathan Galinsky at [email protected] or (304) 929-1651.
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.
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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.