Bryant presents at conference for first-generation students

Samantha Bryant, associate director for Upward Bound Math and Science, presented at the first annual Gen 1 Conference at Eastern Kentucky University on Friday, Nov. 8. The conference highlights the success of first-generation students as well as bringing educators, students, college access professionals and other stakeholders together to collaborate and identify areas for growth and improvement when providing services to first-generation students.  

Bryant, a former Upward Bound student, presented about a topic that hits close to home. In her presentation, “TRIO Student to TRIO Professional: 10 Things LIFG Students Need Now to Ensure Long Term Success,” she shared the skills acquired during both her educational and professional career in TRIO and stressed the importance of TRIO programs.  

“It was truly an honor to speak at the Gen 1 Conference. I am so thankful for my time and experiences in TRIO as a student and staff member. Upward Bound enhanced my life and I will forever speak on the good work it does,” Bryant said.  

Bryant earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary (P-5) Education, a Master of Arts in Educational Counseling, and is currently in the Adult and Higher Education Leadership doctoral program at Morehead State University. She became the associate director of Upward Bound Math and Science in March 2018.  

“First-generation students and their unique needs are often overlooked, Samantha is a wonderful example of what can happen when you take time to invest in these students and the programs that support them,” said Amanda Lewis, director of the Upward Bound Programs at Morehead State University.   

The First-Generation College Celebration is held annually on Nov. 8 across the nation, marking the anniversary of the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which has helped millions of first-generation, low-income/under-resourced students persist to degree completion. The celebration was launched in 2017 by the Council for Opportunity in Education. 

For more information about Upward Bound or TRIO programs, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/trio, email m.hyden@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2611