Program history
The University of Maine has hosted TRIO Upward Bound programs since 1966, beginning with Upward Bound (UB) and then expanding the singular program to two with the addition of Upward Bound Math-Science (UBMS) in 1991.
UMaine hosts 3 additional TRIO programs, read about the others with the links below!
What is TRIO?
”TRIO’ is a term coined for the first three educational opportunity programs that were created under the Lyndon B. Johnson administration. Upward Bound, the first of the three programs, was implemented under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Further administrative actions led to the creation of Talent Search, followed by Student Support Services.
Upward bound (UB)
By 1966, TRIO Upward Bound is established at the University of Maine under the College of Education. The first Summer Program began on July 10th, 1966. In 1980, the term ‘first-generation college student’ is introduced by TRIO. Upward Bound student eligibility is then broadened to include low-income and/or first-generation college students.
Upward Bound math-science (UBMS)
In 1993, the University of Maine welcomed Upward Bound Math-Science onto campus. This program was created to increase STEM educational opportunities made available to underserved high school students. The two programs (UB and UBMS) brought in over 150 students for the Summer of 1993.
Our impact in central maine
13
Maine high schools that work with TRIO Upward Bound Programs to recruit and serve students.
127
students receiving UB or UBMS services through out Penobscot, Hancock, and Piscataquis counties.
65%
of UB and UBMS students will be considered ‘first-generation’ students when they enter college.
What we do today
TRIO Upward Bound Programs continue to be hosted on the University of Maine campus. Student recruitment begins in the Fall and ends in the Spring. Though our Summer Program looks quite different from when the programs were first established, we still provide services with one goal in mind: To provide opportunities for participants to succeed in their precollege performance and ultimately in their higher education pursuits (Department of Education, May 2025).
READY TO JOIN?
Click ‘APPLY’ to learn more about our application process.
Questions?
Email upwardbound@maine.edu