UAH secures $3.2M GEAR UP grant to amplify North Alabama student talent

North Alabama’s future workforce is built on the talent and ambition already present in our schools, long before they enter the job market. The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) has secured a $3.2 million federal grant to partner with students in Limestone and Marshall counties, expanding access to the resources, career networks, and postsecondary pathways that accelerate their lifelong success.

The award, totaling $3,231,252 over six years, is funded through the U.S. Department of Education’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). This initiative invests in high-potential students and vibrant rural and regional communities, expanding opportunities to prepare for and thrive in postsecondary education and career training. Running from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2032, the grant strengthens UAH’s ongoing commitment as part of The University of Alabama System to foster educational access and regional opportunity.

Through this six-year initiative, UAH will partner with approximately 700 students, supporting a single cohort from seventh grade through high school graduation. Co-funded through a joint investment by UAH and Limestone and Marshall County Schools, the collaborative program provides academic enrichment, professional development for math educators, college and career planning, financial literacy, and mentorship, equipping both students and local schools with the resources to drive long-term postsecondary success.

“This grant represents a vital investment in students and communities across North Alabama,” said Dr. Bryan Samuel, Vice President for Access, Connections and Engagement at UAH and Principal Investigator for the project. “By working alongside our local school partners, we are expanding opportunities for students to build on their academic strengths, explore career pathways, and elevate their postsecondary aspirations. Connecting early with these regional resources allows students to cultivate their talents and confidently shape their own futures.”

GEAR UP activities will be co-designed alongside local educators, families, and community partners to align with student strengths and priorities. Key components include academic tutoring, family engagement workshops, math educator professional development, financial literacy, work-based learning, campus visits, and job shadowing.

For Limestone County Schools, the partnership will provide additional academic and student support to help students prepare for opportunities after high school.

“Every student deserves the support and opportunity to earn a high school diploma and pursue a successful future,” said Dr. Randy Shearouse, Superintendent of Limestone County Schools. “Our partnership with UAH and its GEAR UP program helps us put that commitment into action by providing additional support in math, English, and student services. These resources help students strengthen their academic skills, navigate challenges, and develop a plan for life after graduation.”

“We want our students to see postsecondary education as an achievable goal and feel prepared to succeed when they get there,” said Shearouse. “We appreciate UAH’s commitment to Limestone County Schools and look forward to the lasting impact this partnership can have on our students, their families, and our community.”

UAH departments across campus will collaborate directly with partner schools to expand access to university resources, including recruitment and admissions guidance, dual enrollment opportunities, and academic pathways. Through these institutional connections, UAH will continuously partner with families to navigate postsecondary opportunities as students progress through the program.

The initiative also will support students in Marshall County, where school leaders see the grant as an opportunity to strengthen academic achievement and expand students’ options after graduation.

“Marshall County Schools is excited to support the GEAR UP grant initiative in partnership with UAH for Asbury High School and Douglas Middle School" said Dr. Cindy L. Wigley, Superintendent of Marshall County Schools. “We are grateful for this partnership and the valuable opportunities it will provide to strengthen academic achievement, expand college and career readiness, and prepare students for success beyond high school. We appreciate UAH's commitment to investing in our students and helping them reach their full potential.”

The program will focus on advancing student achievement and expanding postsecondary access. Key milestones include accelerating early success in ninth-grade Algebra I, broadening participation in financial literacy education, and expanding pathways for high school graduates transitioning into college and postsecondary training.

According to the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, 85% of good jobs in the United States are projected to require education or training beyond high school by 2031. Through its partnerships with local schools and communities, UAH’s GEAR UP program will partner with students to explore their options as they sharpen the knowledge and skills needed to pursue their education and career goals.

In Limestone County, participating schools are Ardmore High School, Clements High School, Elkmont High School, Tanner High School, and West Limestone High School. In Marshall County, participating schools are Asbury High School and Douglas Middle School.

GEAR UP is a federally funded initiative established by Congress and administered by the Department of Education. The program aligns resources across schools, higher education institutions, and communities to amplify student ambition and readiness as they prepare for and pursue postsecondary education and career training.