Oregon Hosts GEAR UP West Conference: Educators Advance Student Opportunity 

Two women standing next to a banner that says, "GEAR UP West"

Last month, Oregon GEAR UP proudly hosted the GEAR UP West 2025 conference.

This major regional meeting drew top educators and leaders from over 30 states across the country to gather in Oregon. They came to share the best, most practical ideas to help students prepare for education and training after high school. The focus was clear: "Expanding Opportunity, Empowering Students."

A group of folklorico dancers posing for a photo.

Oregon Culture and Leadership Set the Tone

The opening ceremony celebrated both important leaders and talented local students, showing the depth of the Oregon GEAR UP community.

The event began with a powerful, traditional Indigenous drumming performance by the Midnight Travelerz from Klamath Tribes, which featured three talented students.

Following this, attendees heard remarks from key Oregon leaders: Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici offered an official welcome, followed by Oregon State University Vice Provost of Enrollment Management, Nechell Bonds.

The celebration concluded with further student talent: a vibrant folklorico dance presentation from Dayton Junior/Senior High School, and a moving poetry reading by a GEAR UP alum from Stanfield, Oregon.

These performances and official statements celebrated local culture, community pride, drive, and passion, reflecting the mission of lifting up communities through education.

A man on stage addressing a crowd

Leaders Share Stories and Solutions

The conference was anchored by an exceptional group of keynote speakers who shared critical insights designed to empower educators.

  • Mark Yaconelli focused on "The Power of Personal Storytelling," helping attendees guide students toward finding purpose and belonging on their postsecondary journey.
  • Dr. Sabrina Klein, a proud GEAR UP alumna, showed how hard work pays off. She used her powerful personal story to connect education policy and real-life practice, giving actionable insights.
  • Mónica Guzmán led a chat on "How Curiosity Can Unlock the Hardest Conversations," giving educators vital skills to engage with diverse families and community stakeholders.
A presenter with a slide showing data to a group of adult educators

Practical Tools for Tomorrow

Across the conference, leaders exchanged proven strategies in key areas, including: AI in education, rural student access, and culturally responsive practices.

Oregon educators reinforced their shared commitment to ensure every student, no matter where they live, sees education and training after high school within reach.

What You Can Do

The powerful ideas and strategies shared at the GEAR UP West conference are now being used by Oregon educators to empower students across our state and beyond.

To learn more about exploring, applying, paying, and going to college, visit our website at oregongoestocollege.org.

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