Upward Bound Program

Department Contact

1600 Harden Street
Starks Hall - Upper Level
Columbia, SC 29204

(803) 705-4942

Office Hours 9:00AM - 5:00PM

Upward Bound is a pre-college program that provides TRIO-eligible students with extensive academic support including weekend and evening activities, a six-week summer residential program and college-placement services. The program helps students:

take advantage of high school educational opportunities
realize their potential
meet their academic and career goals

Eligibility

We serve students in eligible schools in Richland School District One, Lexington 2, and Kershaw County. Requirements are based on family income and parents’ education levels.

Participating High Schools

The following high schools are a part of the Upward Bound program:

C.A. Johnson High School
Airport High School
Brookland-Cayce High School
W. J. Keenan High School
Fairfield Central High School
Camden High School

Upward Bound Programs and Sessions

Students participate in sessions three times a month during the school year and participate in a six-week residential program at Benedict College in the summer. Tutors are available year-round to help strengthen students’ skills in specific subject areas.

During the School Year

Upward Bound holds approximately three sessions each month during the academic year, which include:

Academic classes geared toward strengthening students’ writing and analytical abilities.
Various college and community activities.
Cultural activities including plays, ballets and musicals.
College admissions counseling, including assistance with completing financial aid and college admissions applications.

Summer Residency Program

During the summer, students who participated during the school year will be invited to live on Benedict College campus for six weeks and become involved in a variety of activities, including:

Academic enrichment classes.
Cultural enrichment classes such as theatre, music, pottery and web design.
University level course for seniors to help prepare them for the transition to college.
Work-study activities that introduce students to various professions.
Group activities to help strengthen team building and interpersonal skills.

Enrollment Applications

Contact Tracy Carn, tracy.carn@benedict.edu or (803) 705-4555

Contact Shanise Brinkley, shanise.brinkley@benedict.edu or (803) 705-4942

Academic Instructor Employment Application

Contact Lateya Sumpter, Director, Lateya.Sumpter@benedict.edu or 803-705-4307.

Staff Directory

Ms. Lateya Sumpter, Director
Benedict College Campus
1600 Harden Street
Starks Hall
Upper Level, Office L3
Columbia, SC 29204
Office phone: (803) 705-4307
Email: lateya.sumpter@benedict.edu

Ms. Tracy Carn, Assistant Director
Benedict College Campus
1600 Harden Street
Starks Hall
Upper Level, Office R1
Columbia, SC 29204
Office phone: (803) 705-4555
Email: tracy.carn@benedict.edu

Ms. Shanise Brinkley, Administrative Coordinator
Benedict College Campus
1600 Harden Street
Starks Hall
Upper Level, Office L1
Columbia, SC 29204
Office phone: (803) 705-4942
Email: shanise.brinkley@benedict.edu

Office Contact Information

Mailing Address:
Upward Bound Program
Benedict College
MSC 1070
1600 Harden Street
Columbia, SC 29204

Physical Location:
Benedict College Campus
1600 Harden Street
Starks Hall
Upper Level
Columbia, SC 29204