Approximately 190 Upward Bound staff, parents, students and honored guests gathered at the Iowa Lakes Community College Emmetsburg campus for the Upward Bound Annual Awards Banquet where students were recognized for their dedication to academic excellence and their desire to earn a college degree. Upward Bound is a federally funded program designed to prepare and motivate students for success in post-secondary education.
“I am consistently amazed at how much our students achieve so much, despite the obstacles they face,” commented Quincy Paden, Iowa Lakes TRiO Director. “Their unyielding dedication toward college admission and beyond serves as a model to all that through perseverance and commitment to excellence, anything is possible.”
The awards presented included:
In Algona, the Site Scholar Medal winner was Levi Goodman (Algona), and the Certificate winner was Abby Smith (Algona).
The Emmetsburg Site Scholar Medal winner was Rachel Sorensen (Armstrong).
Spencer Site Scholar Medal winner was Megan Wissbaum (Spencer).
The Estherville Site Scholar Medal winner was Lorissa Baker (Estherville), and the Certificate winner was Marissa Harvey.
The Top Notch award is presented to a student that demonstrates academic success, works hard with staff to improve his study skills, and demonstrates a work ethic that serves as a model for other students. This year’s winner was Kristina Girres (Graettinger).
The Commitment award was presented to Marissa Harvey and Megan Wissbaum, for showing outstanding commitment to the Upward Bound Program.
