We are grateful to share that Arizona GEAR UP was honored as the 2025 North Star Award recipient from Education Forward Arizona.
The North Star Award recognizes organizations that provide steady, values-driven leadership in Arizona’s education landscape. It celebrates programs that serve as a trusted compass, guiding the way toward a more effective education system. We are proud to be recognized for our work as a statewide initiative administered by Northern Arizona University. For twenty-five years, we have supported tens of thousands of students from low-income and rural communities in achieving their college and career goals.
The award was presented at An InspirED Evening. This event brings together community leaders, educators, and partners to celebrate those making a lasting impact on education and postsecondary attainment in Arizona. Ramona Mellott, Dean of the NAU College of Education and Principal Investigator for Arizona GEAR UP, accepted the award on our behalf.
We are thankful for every counselor, educator, partner, parent, student, and team member who made this honor possible. We remain proud, humbled, and committed to continuing this work and lighting the path toward brighter futures for Arizona students.