Arizona GEAR UP

We’re excited to announce that the GEAR UP Alumni Club is officially on LinkedIn! This new space allows the GEAR UP community to stay connected beyond campus. Everyone in GEAR UP is welcome to join and engage by exploring career and leadership opportunities, alumni spotlights, networking events, and helpful resources. Members are encouraged to share updates, achievements, opportunities, and to offer advice and mentorship to support one another’s success.

Join and grow your network today:
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/17482036/

We are honored to have received the 2025 North Star Award at An InspirED Evening, hosted by Education Forward Arizona

The North Star Award recognizes organizations that provide steady, values-driven leadership in advancing education and equity across Arizona.

For 25 years, Arizona GEAR UP has helped students prepare for college and career success through partnership, community, and opportunity.

Dr. Ramona Mellott, Dean of the College of Education at Northern Arizona University, accepted the award.

Thank you to our partners, educators, and families for helping us light the path toward a brighter future for Arizona students.

Alumni Spotlight: Lilliana Minor

From navigating uncertainty to becoming a leader, Lilliana Minor’s journey is a story of determination and growth. A 2024 graduate of Coronado High School, she is now a sophomore at Arizona State University studying Tourism Development, Hotel and Resorts Management.

With support from GEAR UP and the Next Generation Service Corps, Lilli embraced new challenges, found confidence, and turned obstacles into opportunities. Today, as Vice President of the GEAR UP Alumni Club, she continues to inspire others—showing how belief in yourself, guidance, and community support can open doors to success.
https://in.nau.edu/gear-up/arizona-gear-up-alumni-feature-lilliana-minor/

Happy National GEAR UP Week! This week, we’re shining a spotlight on students across the country and celebrating their hard work, resilience, and progress toward college and career success. GEAR UP helps open doors, provide support, and create opportunities so students can chase their dreams and reach their goals.