The Upward Bound Program at Paul D. Camp Community College celebrated the closing of its summer session with approximately 250 attending a ceremony held July 21 at the Regional Workforce Development Center.

The event was highlighted by a display of student projects and presentations by the high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors. The presentations featured the students’ talents, but were also focused on relating what the students have learned during the summer.

“The Upward Bound students have been busy this summer,” Director Travis Parker said. “We have had workshops led by PDCCC faculty, staff and guest speakers, and organization presentations from Kids College, Youth Career Center of Hampton Roads, Bronco Federal Credit Union and Junior Achievement of Hampton Roads.”

In addition, the students completed two dual enrollment classes — public speaking with Dr. Andrea Hall-Leonard, and college skills with Laura Clark. Students also engaged in geometry, Algebra II, biology, current events, Spanish I and II, essay writing and literature.

“It’s not all work, however,” Parker said. “Upward Bound provides cultural experiences for the students as well. They participate in field trips on and off campus, and hands-on activities.”

Also the students were recognized at the ceremony for raising $550, more than half of the PDCCC goal of funds for the March of Dimes.

The Upward Bound Program is a federal TRIO Program aimed at assisting high school students, who will be first generation college graduates, with continuing their education at a postsecondary institution. The program serves 50 students from Franklin, Lakeland and Southampton high schools.