Lyndon Institute Secures Funding to Continue Upward Bound Program

Only High School in Vermont to Run Upward Bound Celebrates Good News Amid Federal Delays

Lyndon Center, VT — Lyndon Institute is proud to announce that its Upward Bound program—the only one in Vermont operated by a high school—will continue for at least another year, following confirmation of a new grant award notification (GAN) from the U.S. Department of Education. This assurance comes as a major relief after weeks of uncertainty caused by nationwide delays in the release of TRIO program funding.

Upward Bound, part of the federal TRIO network, is dedicated to expanding college access for low-income students, first-generation college-bound students, and students with disabilities. Lyndon Institute’s program provides academic support, mentoring, and college preparation resources that help students realize their full potential and successfully pursue higher education.

“This funding is critically important to our students, their families, and the entire Lyndon Institute community,” said Lindsay Carpenter, Director of Lyndon Institute’s Upward Bound Program, TRIO alumna, and Past-President of the New England Educational Opportunity Association (NEOA). “Many students were deeply worried about whether the support they rely on would continue. With this award, we can reassure them that Lyndon Institute’s Upward Bound program remains a strong, dependable resource.”

“Upward Bound has made a huge difference in my life,” said current student Patrick LaFleur ’28. “Before this program, I never thought I’d be able to pay for college—or even think about going. Now I have a plan for after high school, and I know I can follow it through.”

Across New England, 20 TRIO programs lost funding this year, impacting an estimated 13,000 students. At Lyndon Institute, the program was granted a no-cost extension, allowing the use of 2024–2025 funds to maintain operations until confirmation of new funding. The news of continuation brings immense relief for staff and students alike, ensuring uninterrupted services at a critical moment in the academic year.

“LI’s Upward Bound program is a lifeline for families in the Northeast Kingdom,” said Dr. Brian Bloomfield, Head of School. “It empowers students who may never have imagined college to see new possibilities and gives them the support they need to build a future of their own choosing. We are thrilled to continue offering this transformative program to our students and their families.”

  
TRIO programs nationwide had mobilized to urge federal leaders to act quickly, emphasizing the harm delays cause for low-income and first-generation students who depend on these services. Lyndon Institute joins advocates in celebrating the recent progress while remaining committed to   ensuring the sustainability of TRIO programming for years to come.

For the past three years, Lyndon Institute’s Upward Bound program has helped students in the Northeast Kingdom overcome barriers to higher education, offering individualized support, summer programs, and guidance that extends far beyond the classroom. 

“LI’s Upward Bound program has helped me feel ready for what’s ahead,” said current student Olivia Henn ’28. “I’ve gained not only college prep skills and advice, but also tools I can use right now during my high school career at Lyndon Institute.”

Today’s news means that work will continue—empowering students to achieve their absolute best.