INA, Ill. (August 15, 2025) — The RLC TRiO Upward Bound program, a federally funded college preparatory program for high school students, has successfully completed their 2025 summer program. This summer session had a total of 34 students taking Upward Bound courses, which consisted of Math, Physical Science, English, Latin and American Sign Language.
Front row: Shauna Wilkerson
Second row (L-R): Mandy Stinson, Lillian Jones, Wyatt Shively, Rylee Trame, Charity Knight, Hailey Tomshack, Blossom Sherry-Congleton, Kira Crane, Oshean Prater
Third row (L-R): Chloe Thorne, Bellah Minton, Aliya Barkley, Shailey Neff, Lydia Robison, Phoenix Lavoie, True Claytor, Lillian Davis, Daniya Musgrave, Jordyn Lewis
Back row (L-R): Emerson Vincelette, Odin Poteet, Xavier Kramm, Kaige Elder, Xylin Bowers, Catelyn Allen, Atlas Lewis
"I couldn’t be prouder of our Upward Bound scholars who participated in our summer program at Rend Lake College," said Director of TRiO Programs Mallory Moddelmog. "These incredible students made the choice to invest in their futures by spending their summer taking enrichment courses to prepare for the upcoming school year. Their commitment to learning is inspiring!"
The highlight of the Upward Bound program was their end-of-the-year reward trip for the summer program's students. Students and chaperones made their way to Memphis, Tenn. to partake in a variety of educational and cultural activities, including: the Stax Museum of American Music, National Civil Rights Museum, Graceland Mansion, Memphis Pyramid, Sun Studios, and the Peabody Hotel.
"To celebrate the end of our program, we traveled to Memphis, where we explored iconic cultural and historical sites," said Moddelmog. "The trip provided our students with a deeper understanding of important moments in history and enriched their educational experience beyond the classroom. We wrapped up our adventure with a campus visit to Murray State University, giving students the opportunity to envision the next step in their academic journey."
"I really liked our trip to Memphis. We learned a lot of new things and went to places like the National Civil Rights Museum and Graceland to see Elvis' home," shared Bellah Minton. "We learned about the city of Memphis and its music history along with their cultural differences, too. I had a lot of fun this summer with UB!"
Upward Bound students visiting the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel.
"The National Civil Rights Museum gave us so much powerful information about our history—it was moving and eye-opening," said Kira Crane. "Sun Studio was another highlight; it was so cool to see where music legends recorded, and I especially loved all the instruments, with the drum set being my favorite."
Upward Bound students pose for a photo inside the studio room at iconic Sun Studios.
At the end of the summer program, Upwards Bound hosted a talent show where students can highlight their talents in a short performance. This year, students showcased their talents through singing, playing musical instruments, reciting poetry, color guard and much more!
"Being a part of the Upward Bound program at Rend Lake has been such an amazing experience, and I’m incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity," said Upward Bound Student Noah Tillman. "Not only was I a part of the main program, but I also participated in the summer bridge program, which gave me the chance to get ahead by earning college credit. I’ve seen how the program helps so many students succeed at Rend Lake College through services like tutoring and academic support. It’s a program that truly makes a difference."
During the academic year, Upward Bound emphasizes academic achievement and goal setting which includes weekly tutoring sessions at the student’s high school, college planning and goal setting. Students also experience field trips to educational and cultural destinations which includes college visits, museums and theatrical performances. The summer program is the most intensive aspect of the UB year and includes: five weeks of classes at RLC campus, the opportunity to take RLC full credit classes, and an end of the year trip to major cities.
Interested in the Upward Bound program? Visit rlc.edu/upward-bound to get more information!