The Upward Bound Program at Buffalo State College works with students in grades nine through twelve who are from low-income families and/or are potential first-generation college students to prepare them for post-secondary education.

Throughout the year Upward Bound provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in their precollege performance and ultimately in their higher education pursuits. Upward Bound serves: high school students from low-income families; and high school students from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor's degree. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education.

We have established the Hal D. Payne Upward Bound Scholarship to provide financial support to two students annually who have participated in the program and have demonstrated a level of commitment and effort that we believe will result in their success both academically and in life. We honor Hal D. Payne, whose lifelong work in education through policy-making and advocacy has enabled countless students from disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to pursue postsecondary education.

But we need your help to award this scholarship to deserving students on a regular basis.

When you make a gift to the Hal D. Payne Scholarship Fund, you are setting students up for success in college and in life. Your support makes a real difference for young people who may not otherwise have the resources to pursue their educational and professional goals.

Please join us in lifting up Upward Bound students with a donation to the Hal D. Payne Upward Bound Scholarship today!