Trump Administration Cuts GEAR UP Program, Impacting Indiana Students
The Trump administration has discontinued the GEAR UP program in Indiana, which had been instrumental in supporting low-income students through college preparation initiatives. The U.S. Department of Education terminated the program, impacting a $34.9 million grant awarded to Purdue University under the previous administration. This decision is part of a broader shift in federal education policy emphasizing merit over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Clarence Grier, a graduate of Gary West Side Leadership Academy, attributes his renewed interest in education to GEAR UP. “It was a massive opportunity not only for me, but for all the kids involved,” Grier stated. Currently pursuing electronic technology studies at Lincoln Tech in Melrose Park, Illinois, he reflected on the program’s importance in fostering a sense of community and providing unique activities such as robotics and gardening, which engaged students in ways traditional classrooms did not.
The U.S. Department of Education notified Purdue officials of the grant’s cancellation in a letter dated September 12. The letter cited concerns that the program did not align with the Department’s current educational policy priorities. According to a report by WFYI Public Radio in Indianapolis, the Department labeled portions of GEAR UP’s programming as an “inappropriate use of federal funds,” particularly criticizing its focus on DEI training for hiring managers and faculty development in culturally responsive teaching.
GEAR UP, which stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, has been active in Indiana, particularly within the Gary Community School Corp. The program established connections with students in two middle schools, maintaining support through their senior year. Recently, GEAR UP hosted summer STEM workshops at Bailly STEM Academy and Gary Middle School, where students engaged in field trips and hands-on projects, including a community garden initiative.
Another West Side graduate, Joseph Coburn, shared how GEAR UP shaped his culinary career aspirations. He is now studying culinary arts at Ivy Tech Lake County in East Chicago. “GEAR UP officials showed me cooking shows and books, sent me a list of schools, and provided internships,” Coburn noted. His experience underscores the program’s role in providing critical resources and mentorship.
The implications of the GEAR UP termination extend beyond Indiana, as similar cuts have occurred in New Hampshire and Ohio. While some states continue to receive GEAR UP funding, the trend reflects a strategic shift away from programs that emphasize DEI. Congress initially established GEAR UP in 1998 under the Bill Clinton administration, aiming to enhance opportunities for low-income students through federal grants for STEM education.
The decision to discontinue GEAR UP aligns with actions taken by Republican governors, such as Indiana Governor Mike Braun, who directed state departments to eliminate all DEI initiatives in January 2023. Additionally, the Trump administration has revoked funding for universities designated as Hispanic-Serving Institutions, which require at least 25% Hispanic enrollment. This includes both Purdue University Northwest and Indiana University Northwest, which had previously received financial support under this designation.
Officials from both universities have not commented on the grant revocation. Upon receiving the Hispanic-Serving Institution designation, Purdue Northwest Chancellor Kenneth C. Holford emphasized the institution’s commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment that supports students from diverse backgrounds.
As the educational landscape evolves, the discontinuation of programs like GEAR UP raises concerns about the future of support systems for low-income students. With these changes, many students risk losing access to vital resources that foster academic engagement and career readiness.
