Rising Scholars Summer Institute at Kent State Stark provides opportunities to experience campus.
This summer, high school students from across the region gathered at the 5X at Stark to participate in the Rising Scholars Program’s Summer Institute. Among them was Aireanna Tyson, a senior from Canton City School District’s Early College Academy, who plans to major in pre-med.
“This program really shaped me as an incoming college student. It taught me college tips and tricks and gave me something to feel confident about!” Tyson said.
The Rising Scholars Program is an initiative of Kent State Regional Campuses, where each campus partners with local communities to create a support system that prepares promising youth for life after high school.
At the Stark Campus, Academic Program Coordinator Lester Sanders leads the Rising Scholars Program. The Stark program has been empowering students for the past five years.
Rising Scholars focuses on personal growth, academic readiness and core values, giving students the confidence to face the challenges of college life, Sanders explained. This year-round initiative culminates in a three-week Summer Institute, where students immerse themselves in a college-like atmosphere.
The program aims to increase high school graduation rates, enhance college readiness and boost college attendance in both urban and rural areas. It also prepares students for the workforce, ensuring they have the skills needed to support economic growth in the region. The program especially benefits students with strong academic potential but limited access to resources, providing scholarships that help cover tuition at 5X.
The impact of the Rising Scholars Program is clear. Brenna Burns, a senior from McKinley High School in Canton is planning to major in psychology at Kent State Stark. She shared how the program eased her financial worries: “I don’t feel as scared about finances anymore. It’s surprisingly easy to complete scholarship forms and find financial help.”
Joshua Young, another senior from Early College Academy, plans to double major in criminal justice and finance. He credits the program with helping him “meet new people who plan to attend the campus and learn all about the college.”
Meghan Gantz, a senior from Fairless High School who will major in business, said, “The program gave me new experiences, allowed me to meet new people, and prepared me for college while teaching me about scholarships.”
As the educational landscape evolves, the Rising Scholars Program continues to provide crucial opportunities for students.
“By investing in the next generation, the program not only prepares students for academic success but also empowers them to become leaders in their communities,” said Sanders.
Through mentorship, academic preparation and personal development, the Rising Scholars program ensures every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
For more information, contact Lester Sanders, academic program coordinator for Rising Scholars, at lsanders@kent.edu.