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Empowering Futures through Education

In a world where access to education often dictates opportunities, Hughes Elite Scholars emerges as a beacon of hope for aspiring students. 

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Upholding Educational Dreams

Hughes Elite Scholars is a nonprofit organization committed to providing year-round assistance to high school students with the desire, motivation, and potential to complete school and pursue a college degree. Our flagship programs, Upward Bound and Pathways to Success, are meticulously tailored to support low-income and first-generation students on their journey to college and beyond, equipping them with the necessary tools to thrive economically and socially in society.

Nurturing Ambition
Education Over Debt 2024 Scholarships

In line with our dedication to dismantling financial barriers to education, Hughes Elite Scholars proudly introduces the Education Over Debt 2024 Scholarships. Each scholarship, valued at $2,000, is available to eligible applicants, including African American students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and individuals enrolled in Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) pursuing higher education. 

Opportunities for Giving Back
Volunteer Initiatives

Beyond financial aid, Hughes Elite Scholars offers avenues for students to engage in community service and contribute to society. One such initiative is the Run4More 5K event, scheduled for May 4, 2024. This volunteering opportunity not only promotes physical fitness but also instills a sense of social responsibility among participants.

Investing in Community
The Barriers to Bridges Scholarship Program

The Barriers to Bridges Scholarship Program is designed to remove financial obstacles and create real opportunities for students committed to their future. By providing both funding and mentorship, the program supports first-generation students, current college students, and educators as they pursue higher education, develop leadership skills, and build pathways toward long-term success.

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Upcoming Events

Stay updated on our upcoming events and access invaluable resources through Hughes Elite Scholars. Whether you seek assistance with college applications, preparation for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, or guidance on applying for federal student aid, rest assured, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

More events coming soon...

TBD

2025

September

CFNC with Timeka Ruffin
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

September

2026
Academic Year Begins
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

September

2026

October

Saturday Academy 1st and 3rd Saturdays
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026
Community Service Project (All Counties & All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026
FAFSA completion assistance (All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026
NC Residency assistance (All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026
Education over Debt Level Up 1 day Workshop at CPCC Main Campus
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026
College Tour # 1 Guilford College & NC A&T State University (Juniors & Seniors Only)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026
North Carolina Free College Application Week Oct. 19-25, 2026
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

October

2026

November

Saturday Academy 1st and 3rd Saturdays
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

November

2026
FAFSA completion assistance (All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

November

2026
NC Residency assistance (All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

November

2026
College Tour # 2 North Carolina Central University (Juniors & Seniors Only)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

November

2026
Cultural Field Trip
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

November

2026
College Tour # 3 UNC-Asheville and Senior Seminar (Seniors Only)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

November

2026

December

Saturday Academy 1st Saturday
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

December

2026
FAFSA completion assistance (All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

December

2026
NC Residency assistance (All Month)
Please refer to our email correspondence for exact dates and times.  
 

December

2026
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Creating Pathways to Higher Education

Bridges To Barriers Scholarship Foundation

The Barriers to Bridges Scholarship Program supports students pursuing higher education by providing financial assistance and mentorship. Designed for first-generation and second-generation college students, the program helps remove financial obstacles and empowers students to continue their academic journey with confidence.

Through scholarship funding and community support, we are helping students turn potential into progress.

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Program

Pathways Workforce Accelerator

The Workforce Accelerator is a year-round career-readiness and pre-apprenticeship initiative that sits at the intersection of education, workforce development, and economic mobility. Focused on youth aged 16–24, the program connects students to high-demand industries and livable-wage careers through hands-on learning, wraparound support, and intentional partnerships with employers.

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Program

Seamless Pathways to Success

Our array of after-school programs under Pathways to Success provides essential mentoring and support to students, aiding them in navigating the complexities of higher education and staying on track towards their academic objectives. Through personalized guidance and abundant resources, we empower students to surmount obstacles and realize their full potential.

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Program

Upward Bound Program

Did you know the Upward Bound program more than doubles the likelihood that students will enroll in a four-year college?

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.

  • Improve Academic Performance (GPA & Standardized Tests)
  • Promote Secondary School Retention & Graduation
  • Completion of Rigorous Academic Secondary Program
  • Post-Secondary Enrollment
  • Post-Secondary Completion
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Join together for our mission

Join us in our mission to empower students and transform lives through education. Your contribution holds the power to shape the futures of aspiring scholars.

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OUR TESTIMONIALS

Success Stories

Discover inspiring success stories from individuals who have overcome challenges, achieved their goals, and transformed their lives.

Upward Bound has helped me by providing me with opportunities such as helping with standardized exams, college applications, and providing free SAT/ACT and application waivers. I love Upward Bound because not only does it provide me with these resources but it also gives me many lifelong friendships with those with similar situations as me. The kind staff of Upward Bound has always offered me their help when l'm in need and will continue to even in my future endeavors, which I am grateful for.

ANUSHA KARGOOL LEVINE MIDDLE COLLEGE C/O 2021| UCLA

My son has always been a smart student, however, life experiences during his transition to high school, began to cause his grades to slip. He seemed uninterested in succeeding in his studies and life in general. When I attended the first open house for Rocky River High school, I met Mr. Hobbs, who was with the Upward Bound program. I remembered several of my cousins participated in this in my younger days, and inquired about it for my son. I enrolled him, even though he was reluctant. Upward Bound and Mr. Hobbs, used a hands on approach, making sure he had food, and necessary materials to be successful in the program. That made me and my son feel they personally invested in him. Now, as a Junior, I have seen his grades rising, his responsibility increasing and his general anticipation of what life can provide for him is now evident, along with confidence to do his best.

L. ROBINSON-ROCKY RIVER PARENT

Upward Bound has helped me develop and grow in many ways since my Freshman year with the opportunities during summer to refine my skills for the following years, being encouraged to get tutored, and instilling the drive to seek more in my educational career. Upward Bound has made me the individual I am today the support I received from staff was phenomenal and I know the skills and opportunities I have met will take me far in life.

ALEX SALINAS ROCKY RIVER – UPWARD BOUND

For me upward bound has helped me learn more about the curriculum I learn at school and it has helped me bring myself in communicating more with others. One of the things I like about upward bound is their love to help kids get a better future and spend time with them and what they need help on. And the staff is really supportive in what you need and also help you in any way they can they provide many things like tutoring, Summer classes, and stipends for you when you participate.

ALEXIS ROBLES ROCKY RIVER – UPWARD BOUND

Upward provided a safe, educational space for my daughter. Not only was she learning but was gaining various experiences as well, college tours, living on a college campus, fun field trips, traveling to New York and taking in advice about jobs. The staff was welcoming and made connections.

JAMILLA LEWIS'S MOM ROCKY RIVER UPWARD BOUND

Upward Bound has been a part of my high school career for 3 years now. I've learned many things, meet amazing teachers, staff, and students. Upward Bound has helped me improve my grades, have a better understanding, and l've learned to not be afraid to ask for help. My favorite experience was the summer program. I got to have early access to what I was going to learn the following school year. It helped me out especially in math because I struggle in math and it isn't my strongest subject but with the help of Upward bounds summer program I passed the class with a B. I'm extremely thankful for Mr.Hobbs and Mr.Frazier they've been there since the beginning, making sure l'm doing tutoring, turning in assignments, having stuff prepared for college and answering all of my questions.

ARLY MEJIA ROCKY RIVER UPWARD BOUND

Upward Bound throughout my years in high school has helped me make my high school years easier.Every staff in this program is very helpful, caring and easy to talk too. They step out of their way to make sure you get what you need for example during the program they deliver food too our house, bring our stipends to us, provide transportation for educational trips, gave us school supplies and COVID protection stuff like mask and gloves and hand sanitizer.

OSVALDO MENDEZ,PHILLIP O'BERRY UPWARD BOUND

Upward Bound has helped me in many ways such as, getting prepared for the next school year and me learning more of each subject, upward bound has encouraged me to go to tourtoring and it has helped my grades a lot, the staff are as nice as can be and will make sure any request or anything you would like is approved, they look over us as much as possible. Upward bound is also fun such as the tours we take and the trips and even just all being together.

NAY BRUTON, ALBEMARLE HIGH UPWARD BOUND

Upward Bound has provided Asia with many opportunities such as internships, college information, and taking college courses while in high school that will help with transitioning to college. Through Upward Bound Asia has learned to save and buy her own school clothes with monies received. As a parent, I feel like I am not alone in preparing Asia for college, and the summer trips allowed us to bond as mother/daughter. The staffs are professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and communicate very well.

ASIA AMOS'S MOM MARY REED EAST MECKLENBURG UPWARD BOUND

Upward Bound has truly been a blessing to Lauren and I. The summer program prepared her for the upcoming Junior year and the field trips were fun! Upward Bound offers great incentives for those that participate. They serve the families that are part of the program by dropping off meals, provided much needed gift certificates and really do care for our teens. This program has been great!

LAUREN FREEMAN'S MOM CYNTHIA M EAST MECKLENBURG UPWARD BOUND
ANY QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions !

To apply for our scholarships, visit our website and follow the outlined application process. Ensure all required documents are submitted by the specified deadline.

While our volunteer initiatives primarily target students, we welcome community members passionate about supporting educational initiatives. Reach out to us for more information on how you can contribute

The Upward Bound program primarily serves high school students from low-income families or those who will be the first in their family to attend college. Eligibility criteria may vary based on specific program requirements.

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular updates on events, resources, and opportunities available through Hughes Elite Scholars. Simply provide your email address and basic contact information to join our mailing list.

While we collaborate with various partners, including schools, churches, and community centers, Hughes Elite Scholars operates as an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students on their educational journey.

Still have a questions?
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Your gateway to seamless communication with our team. Whether you have inquiries, feedback, or simply want to reach out, this is the place to connect. We value your input and strive to provide prompt and efficient assistance. Don’t hesitate to get in touch; we’re here to help!

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OUR LATEST BLOG

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Inclusivity
Preventing Bullying and Fostering Inclusivity: A Guide for Students and Parents

In today’s society, combating bullying and fostering inclusivity is more crucial than ever. Hughes Elite Scholars is dedicated to equipping students and parents with the tools and knowledge they need to prevent bullying and promote diversity in schools. By understanding the signs of bullying, teaching empathy, and empowering bystanders, we can create a community where every student feels safe and valued.

thias May 15, 2024
Parents
Student Success Stories: Inspiring Journeys of Hughes Elite Scholars

Step into the realm of student success stories with Hughes Elite Scholars, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering high school students from underserved communities. Through personalized programs like Upward Bound and Pathways to Success, students defy odds and achieve their dreams of higher education. Explore the transformative journeys of resilience, determination, and triumph as we celebrate the boundless potential of every student.

thias May 15, 2024
Parents
Problem-Solving at Home: A Guide by Hughes Elite Scholars

In today’s fast-paced world, problem-solving skills are crucial for success in both academics and everyday life. Whether it’s tackling homework assignments, resolving conflicts with family members, or navigating personal challenges, being able to effectively solve problems is a valuable skill that can make a significant difference. At Hughes Elite Scholars, we understand the importance of problem-solving, especially for high school students facing various obstacles. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies and techniques for problem-solving at home, tailored to help you overcome challenges and thrive in your academic and personal pursuits.

thias May 15, 2024

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