Education

GEAR UP Alumni Spotlight: Hailee Padgett

Posted by Hector Ponce on January 9, 2026

Hailee Padgett, a 2022 graduate of Youngker High School, is continuing her education while building a life far from home. Now living in Georgia, Hailee is enrolled in a dental hygiene program, working toward her associate degree and preparing for a career in healthcare. Along the way, relocating to different states helped her build independence, adaptability, and a clear sense of direction for her future.

During high school, GEAR UP played an important role in helping Hailee explore her postsecondary… Read more

Arizona GEAR UP Honored With 2025 North Star Award

Posted by Hector Ponce on November 20, 2025

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 Alumni Feature: Lilliana Minor

Posted by Hector Ponce on September 24, 2025

Name:

Lilliana Minor

High School:

Coronado High School (Class of 2024)

Postsecondary Plan:

Arizona State University, studying Tourism Development, Hotel and Resorts Management

Journey:

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

Alumna destacada: Lizeth Carreon

Posted by Hector Ponce on September 23, 2025

To read in English, click here.

Nombre:

Lizeth Carreon

Escuela preparatoria:

Amphitheater High School (Generación 2023)

Planes después de la prepa:

Estudiar Análisis de Datos Empresariales (Business Data Analytics) en la Universidad Estatal de Arizona (ASU)

Historia:

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

Arizona GEAR UP Alumni Spotlight: Lizeth Carreon

Posted by Hector Ponce on September 22, 2025

leer esto en español

Name:

Lizeth Carreon

High School:

Amphitheater High School (Class of 2023)

Postsecondary Plan:

Arizona State University, studying Business Data Analytics

Journey:

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

WANTED: Advisors for our GEAR UP Alumni Clubs at NAU, ASU and U of A

Posted by Hector Ponce on August 12, 2025

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

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    15451 N. 28th Ave., Suite 216
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