Initiatives
Minnesota “I Have a Dream” Scholarship Program
Established in 1989 by Twin Cities Businessman Bill Lahr, the Minnesota “I Have a Dream” Scholarship Program was inspired by a similar program begun in New York in 1983. Currently supported by Karen Sternal, the late Bill Lahr’s spouse. Partnered with the University of Minnesota’s College of Education and Human Development TRiO Upward Bound, the Dream Scholarship is available to all TRIO Upward Bound students who meet specific academic and income guidelines.
The Dream Scholarship is unique. The TRIO Upward Bound students accrue escrow based on their performance throughout high school. For each year that students meet the performance requirement, $1,000 is escrowed for a maximum of $4,000. Once they attend College, the students must achieve specific academic guidelines in order to tap into the money they have earned during high school. If the guidelines are successfully met, the students are awarded a portion of their total scholarship. The students have up to six years to seek this scholarship. Upon post secondary graduation the escrow balance is awarded.
Outward Bound Wilderness Experience
Along with academic abilities, it is essential that TRIO Upward Bound students develop mature problem-solving strategies, communication and social skills, leadership, and self-sufficiency. Above all, they need to have confidence that they can face whatever life has to offer. The Outward Bound wilderness program (OBW) provides a unique opportunity for students to develop that confidence through a rigorous, but supportive, wilderness program.
Outward Bound also emphasizes leadership, concern for others, and team building. Students who might not otherwise see themselves as a leader or as team players will realize their ability to develop in these areas. A common thread among all students’ common is a sense of accomplishment and pride they feel after their OB experience. The Outward Bound experience encourages students to bond together, trust one another, and learn how to work as a team. Students learn about building community thorough teamwork, which is readily learned through first-hand experience.
College Tour
Prior to their senior year, students have the opportunity to explore a variety of college campuses during an annual three-day summer tour. This trip gives students an opportunity to see colleges outside the Twin Cities and expand their college choice interests. In past years, students have visited Carleton College, St. Olaf College, Minnesota State University-Mankato, and the University of Wisconsin at River Falls. Students have the opportunity to meet with admissions counselors and current college students from each school in order to get first-hand information. At some campuses, students will stay in a dorm, eat in the dining hall, and participate in campus activities.
Revised April 2006
