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.… Read more
Arizona GEAR UP is excited to welcome Minerva “Mini” Maestas as our new Financial Oversight Manager!
Mini was born in Mexico City and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. She graduated from Washington High School in Glendale, Arizona, and earned her bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Arizona State University. With 25 years of experience in public, private, and governmental accounting, she brings extensive knowledge to our team.
Outside of her professional work, Mini is a proud mother… Read more
Lilliana Minor
Coronado High School (Class of 2024)
Arizona State University, studying Tourism Development, Hotel and Resorts Management
There was a time when Lilliana Minor wasn’t sure if college was the right path for her. Financial concerns and family responsibilities made the prospect of higher education feel overwhelming. But with a positive and driven mindset, alongside the encouragement of mentors and the support of her community, Lilli discovered ways to navigate challenges and create her own path as she enters… Read more
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Lizeth Carreon
Amphitheater High School (Generación 2023)
Estudiar Análisis de Datos Empresariales (Business Data Analytics) en la Universidad Estatal de Arizona (ASU)
Desde reuniones de clubes y eventos estudiantiles a largas sesiones de estudio nocturnas, Lizeth Carreón tiene una agenda muy apretada en la Universidad Estatal de Arizona. Como estudiante de tercer año de Análisis de Datos Empresariales, ella desempeña varias funciones: líder estudiantil, organizadora de clubes, becaria y mentora de… Read more
Lizeth Carreon
Amphitheater High School (Class of 2023)
Arizona State University, studying Business Data Analytics
From club meetings and campus events to late-night study sessions, Lizeth Carreon has a full plate at Arizona State University. A junior majoring in business data analytics, she wears many hats–student leader, club organizer, scholarship recipient, and mentor to peers. Yet despite her busy schedule, Lizeth radiates positivity and speaks with warmth and gratitude about every step of her journey.
Lizeth grew… Read more
Arizona GEAR UP is launching the student-led GEAR UP Alumni Clubs at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona, and we need dedicated faculty and staff to help bring them to life. We have students ready to go with members and a constitution drawn up; all we need is YOU! These clubs will serve as vital networks for GEAR UP graduates, connecting them with peers, resources, and opportunities to thrive… Read more