The energy during The State of Student U 2026 was electric! It was more than just an update, it was a powerful moment of investing in bright futures together. We were moved by the powerful stories shared directly by our community members, inspired by the bold vision our staff laid out for the future, and energized by the thoughtful Q&A discussion with all of our attendees. It was truly an engaging afternoon of connection and purpose.

We don’t want you to miss a moment of that magic, so we’ve made the full recording available for you to watch:

Quick Highlights:

Here are the major milestones we discussed:

• Our New Mission:

  We are students, families, and educators cultivating joy and academic excellence in learning communities so all students thrive in Durham and beyond.

• Elevated Goals: We’re maintaining our 100% graduation rate while striving for all Student U enrollment students to graduate with a 2.5 GPA or higher and increasing enrollment opportunities for more Durham families.

• Scaling Impact: From expanding our Full Service Community Schools footprint as lead implementer in central NC to deepening partnerships with DPS, we are growing to meet students’ brilliance.

Community Q&A Highlights:

Our breakout sessions sparked deep, intentional dialogue. We explored how Student U is evolving to meet the current moment, specifically discussing:

• Academic Excellence: The structural changes and partnerships needed to help all students reach a 2.5+ GPA.

• Strategic Partnerships: How we sustain authentic relationships with school districts and engage families within Community Schools.

• Community Advocacy: Our role in growing neighborhood connections at the WG Pearson Center and supporting our Durham community during uncertainties regarding immigration and local change.

Want to learn more? If you have additional questions about these topics, please reach out to Brandy Luce at brandy.luce@studentudurham.org.

Upcoming Events:

Decision Day 2026 – May 14, 2026, at 5:30 pm

Summer Academy Morning Brilliance Tour – July 21, 2026, at 8:30 am

Student U’s 20th Birthday Bash – August 1, 2026, at 11 am