Lake Michigan College Celebrates 30 Years of Upward Bound

BENTON HARBOR, MI — Lake Michigan College (LMC) is proud to mark a landmark milestone this academic year: 30 years of the Upward Bound program supporting first-generation, low-income students from the Benton Harbor area in their journey to and through higher education. Since its arrival at LMC, Upward Bound has served as a transformative force in the lives of hundreds of students, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and resources to pursue postsecondary success. 

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Upward Bound provides college preparatory services to students at Benton Harbor High School who have the potential to become the first in their families to earn a bachelor’s degree. The program serves up to 78 students annually, with approximately 95% identifying as first-generation college-goers and 88% also qualifying as low-income. 

“The Upward Bound program at Lake Michigan College empowers students at local high school to achieve academic excellence through hands-on enrichment opportunities, college and career preparation, and leadership development,” said Jacob Sall, Director of Upward Bound at LMC. “Thirty years of that mission is a testament to the dedication of our staff, the trust of our partner schools, and, above all, the resilience and drive of every scholar who has walked through our doors.” 

Thirty Years of Results 

The program’s commitment to student success is reflected in strong and consistent outcomes: 

• Up to 78 students served each academic year through partnerships with Fair Plain Middle School, Mildred C. Wells Preparatory Academy, and Benton Harbor High School. 
• In 2023–24, 10 of 13 seniors (77%) enrolled in postsecondary education, including Lake Michigan College, Grand Valley State University, and Ferris State University. 
• In 2024–25, 7 of 9 seniors (78%) went on to postsecondary institutions including LMC, Western Michigan University, and Texas State University. 
• This year’s Class of 2026 has achieved the program’s best outcome yet: 18 of 19 seniors have already been accepted to a postsecondary institution, all with plans to attend. Students are heading to LMC, Western Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, and beyond. 

A Year-Round Commitment to Scholar Success 

Upward Bound at LMC provides comprehensive, year-round support that goes far beyond the classroom. During the academic year, scholars receive academic advising, weekly tutoring sessions, SAT/ACT preparation, financial literacy workshops, college application support, and monthly Saturday college-prep sessions held on the LMC campus. 

Each summer, scholars participate in the six-week Upward Bound Summer Academic Institute (UBSAI), during which they take courses in mathematics, laboratory science, foreign language, composition, and literature, and get to experience college life firsthand with an overnight stay in LMC’s Beckwith Hall. Educational excursions to colleges, museums, theaters, and businesses round out the experience, giving students a window into a world of possibilities. 

Scholars Speak: Impact in Their Own Words 

The program’s impact is perhaps best expressed by the students whose lives it has shaped: 

“Upward Bound was more than just a program — it was a foundation. It helped shape my mindset, build my confidence, and gave me tools that I still use today.”  Qiyamah, Early Middle College alumna, High school diploma & A.A. from LMC (2020); B.A. from DePaul University. 

“Upward Bound helped me show up in rooms that would have been difficult to enter. I learned communication skills, public speaking skills, and discipline throughout the program.” Quianna, Class of 2024, Currently enrolled at Grand Valley State University, majoring in Finance. 

“Upward Bound opened many doors for me and gave me the real college experience. I feel very prepared for my next chapter in life.” Emonee, Class of 2026. 

“Upward Bound has impacted my life by getting me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to explore the world, and preparing me for college.” JaQuan, Class of 2026. 

Looking Ahead 

As LMC’s Upward Bound program enters its fourth decade, the work continues. Eight current scholars have indicated plans to attend Lake Michigan College, with Western Michigan University and Grand Valley State University also among top choices. The program remains a vital bridge between potential and opportunity for the students of Benton Harbor. 

For information about Upward Bound at Lake Michigan College, contact the Upward Bound office or visit www.lakemichigancollege.edu. 

About Lake Michigan College 

Lake Michigan College is a comprehensive community college serving Berrien County and surrounding communities from its main campus in Benton Harbor, Michigan. LMC offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs designed to help students reach their academic and career goals. For more information, visit lakemichigancollege.edu. 

About Upward Bound 

Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program through the U.S. Department of Education. It supports low-income, first-generation college-bound high school students in building the skills and motivation needed to complete high school, enroll in, and graduate from a postsecondary institution with a bachelor’s degree within six years.