The Impact Of Investing In Bright Futures: 2024-2025 At A Glance

The 2024–2025 school year marked a defining chapter for Student U. After 18 years of proven success in our enrollment-based programs, this was the year we began scaling what works by expanding our model beyond Durham and across Central North Carolina. It challenged our team, stretched our systems, and pushed us to grow. More importantly, it reaffirmed what we know to be true: when students experience belonging, consistency, and opportunity, they thrive.

Highlights

Empowering Students Through Direct Services

  • College Success: Our six-year graduation rate reached 53% in Spring 2025, more than double the national average for first-generation, low-income students.
  • Whole Child & Family Engagement: Throughout the 2024–2025 school year and summer, we saw significant growth in student participation across counseling, health services, and wellness programming.
  • Summer Academy Growth: Students averaged 20.4% academic growth during our 5-week 2025 Summer Academy, based on pre- and post-assessments.

Developing Leaders To Drive Systemic Change

  • 100% of Student U–supported Community Schools saw increases in academic growth and 75% saw growth in enrollment, with New Hope Elementary ranking in the top 2% statewide for academic growth
  • Student U, in partnership with the Academic Success Alliance, co-hosted the Durham Education Attainment Summit at Durham Tech—bringing together 84 educators, nonprofit leaders, employers, and elected officials to strengthen pathways from high school to postsecondary education, certifications, and meaningful careers
  • Student U shared best practices statewide and nationally, presenting at 14 conferences to expand what works beyond our region

Fostering Collective Impact At The W.G. Pearson Center

  • Student U became the full owner of the W.G. Pearson Center—securing a permanent home for community-driven impact
  • The Center reached 100% occupancy, serving as a hub for 11 nonprofit tenants and countless community partners
  • The newly renovated community kitchen officially opened, celebrated with a ribbon-cutting and led by Culinary Femme Collective, alongside multiple local businesses using the space

HOW YOU CAN HELP CONTINUE SPREADING THE JOY

Your support enables Student U to continue this joyful work. Here are three ways you can join us:

  • Donate: Every dollar provides direct support to students.
  • Volunteer: Contribute to the change with your service of time and skills, including tutoring, mentoring, and working at The W.G. Pearson Center’s garden.
  • Spread the Word: Follow our stories and share them with your network.

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