Davenport University has been awarded a $10 million grant by the U.S. Department of Education through the highly competitive Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). The funding is part of a seven-year federal partnership award and will support Davenport’s Mid-Michigan GEAR UP (MMGU) Project, aimed at improving college readiness and long-term academic success for more than 1,700 middle school students in high-need communities across Michigan.

Davenport is one of only 32 recipients nationwide and one of just two institutions in Michigan to secure funding in this year’s cycle. Out of 146 eligible applicants, the competition saw a record number of perfect scores, with final selections based on the level of need among proposed school partners. Davenport was selected due to its commitment to underserved student populations and its strong partnerships with schools in areas of concentrated need.

The MMGU Project will serve students in the Lansing School District, Ypsilanti Community Schools, and Muskegon Heights Public School Academy System, providing them with a comprehensive, seven-year support system from 6th grade through their first year of college. Programming includes after-school robotics and AI learning clubs, college and career readiness initiatives, campus visits and family workshops focused on higher education access, financial aid and financial literacy.

“Davenport University is honored to lead this transformative initiative that will open doors for more than 1,700 Michigan students,” said Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., president of Davenport University. “This grant is a direct reflection of the strength of our partnerships across the state, particularly our K-12 school partners and more than 20 dedicated organizations and community colleges. Everyone involved is committed to creating new pathways to education, career opportunities and lifelong fulfillment.”

Davenport’s MMGU Project unites 23 partner organizations, including Henry Ford Museum, Grand Rapids Art Museum, and Capital Area Michigan Works!, to provide hands-on cultural and career-connected learning. Davenport will also collaborate with the University of Olivet, Grand Rapids Community College, Monroe County Community College, and Muskegon Community College to guide students toward postsecondary success.

Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross, superintendent of Ypsilanti Community Schools, said the awarding of the GEAR UP grant from the U.S. Department of Education is an outstanding opportunity for the district and its students.

“We are thrilled that this funding will provide our 6th and 7th grade scholars with the additional resources and support needed to succeed academically and prepare for their futures,” said Zachary-Ross. “We are particularly excited that this effort will extend through postsecondary life, setting them on a clear path to success. We extend our thanks to Davenport University for their strong partnership and unwavering commitment to the success of our scholars. Truly, the sky’s the limit for our scholars with this kind of sustained support.”

The GEAR UP program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Since its inception, it has served as a critical pipeline for improving college access and success across the country.

“Grand Rapids Community College is honored to partner with Davenport University in this important GEAR Up initiative,” said Dr. Steven J. Triezenberg, GRCC interim president. “Through campus visits and engagement with our faculty and staff, we are excited to introduce young learners to what “college” looks like and to help them see themselves in this setting. This grant reflects the power of collaboration in helping young students, and their parents, know that colleges have the programs and resources that will help them succeed in a wide range of career directions.”

Davenport will begin working with partners soon to be ready for student participation in GEAR UP activities sometime in 2026.