The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Division of Student Affairs’ Career & Professional Development Center and Department of Student Access & Success Programs are proud to announce that it will host its first Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Seeking, Observing, and Achieving Results (S.O.A.R.) Program from Sunday, July 6, 2025, to Friday, July 11, 2025. This week-long residential program experience, presented in partnership with TMCF, is designed to support high-achieving high school juniors (rising seniors) by providing an innovative and immersive experience into the world of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and NCCU, college preparation, and career exploration.
“Being a Thurgood Marshall College Fund Member School, it is always an honor and a privilege when they choose NCCU to introduce one of their transformative programs to the students at our institution,” said Charles Jennings Jr., executive director of the NCCU Career and Professional Development and Student Success. “It is now going to be even more dynamic for us to have the S.O.A.R. program so that an impression can be made on the next generation of Eagles.”
The NCCU-TCMF S.O.A.R. partnership aims to equip students with essential knowledge and resources as they prepare for their future academic endeavors. Participants will engage in a curriculum-based experience that encompasses the college admissions process, financial aid and scholarships, and career pathways, all while being exposed to the rich culture and legacy of an HBCU institution.
“Hosting the TMCF S.O.A.R. Program allows us to expand current pre-collegiate services and provide a transformative experience that prepares high-achieving scholars for their academic and professional journeys ahead,” said Dekendrick Murray, executive director for the NCCU Student Access and Success Programs Department. “Thank you, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, for this amazing opportunity to support our surrounding counties and students throughout the nation.”
The TMCF S.O.A.R. program at NCCU will provide students with interactive workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking opportunities with faculty, staff, and alumni. The initiative aligns with TMCF’s mission to develop pathways for students from marginalized communities to access higher education and career success.
“We at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund are thrilled to collaborate with North Carolina Central University for our TMCF S.O.A.R. program. Hosting incoming seniors in Durham for a week-long experience will make a meaningful impact on their final year of high school and future endeavors,” said Ashley Odom, senior director of programs at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. “Our future Eagles will have the opportunity to explore their post-graduation pathways, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way.”
The program is completely free for participants, including their housing and meals, removing financial barriers and ensuring access for qualified high school students. High-achieving juniors with a minimum 3.0 grade point average and a demonstrated commitment to their academic success and community involvement are encouraged to apply.
Applications for the TMCF S.O.A.R. Program at NCCU are now open. For more information or questions, please email [email protected] or contact Charles Jennings ([email protected] | 919-530-6198) and Dekendrick Murray ([email protected] | 919-530-5058).