Credit: Montgomery County Community College
Montgomery County Community College’s federally funded Upward Bound program, which for nearly two decades has helped hundreds of local high school students prepare for college, has lost its federal support, according to a report from the Philadelphia Inqurier.
In May, the U.S. Department of Education informed the college it was ending funding for the program, part of the federal TRIO grant initiative. The cut eliminates about $650,000 in remaining funds from a five-year, $1.6 million grant awarded in 2022.
Since 2007, MCCC’s Upward Bound has served nearly 300 students from Norristown and Pottstown, many of whom are from low-income families and would be the first in their families to attend college. Participants received academic support, mentoring, and preparation for higher education.
“This work was a vital part of our mission to expand access to all students and support student success,” said college spokesperson Diane VanDyke, noting the program’s impact on first-generation students.
The Department of Education has not provided specific reasons for ending the grant, but in its termination letter, officials said some programs conflicted with the administration’s policies on fairness and appropriate use of federal funds. The college has asked for reconsideration but has not received a response.
MCCC is one of several schools nationwide facing uncertainty under the Trump administration’s effort to reevaluate or reduce TRIO and other federal education programs. While Community College of Philadelphia recently secured a temporary extension for its own Upward Bound program, leaders there also expressed concern about future funding.
Across the country, delays in TRIO grant disbursements this fall left many programs in limbo. Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education, said the delay created a “shock wave,” forcing some programs to cut back or suspend services.
For students, the impact is deeply personal. Alumni have credited Upward Bound with opening doors to higher education, while current participants say the program provides guidance their families can’t always offer.
Despite the loss of funding, VanDyke emphasized the college remains committed to supporting disadvantaged students. “We’re hopeful this decision can be reconsidered,” she said.
