Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs is a seven year descretionary federal grant program, aiming to increase the number of low income, first generation students who graduate from high school to enroll in college. GEAR UP TN aims to expand the college-going culture in Tennessee. By using an empowerment model that recognizes the assets and needs of local communities, GEAR UP TN looks to shift the state’s educational culture. We aim to develop long-term, successful partnerships to support students in reaching college and providing them with the resources to succeed in college.