Oregon – Next week, October 26-28, 2025, hundreds of educators, college access professionals, and community leaders from across the region and United States will come together for GEAR UP West 2025, an annual conference celebrating innovation, equity, and opportunity in education.

Hosted by Oregon GEAR UP, the conference serves as a hub for collaboration and inspiration, uniting those who help first-generation and low-income students prepare for and succeed in college.

Expanding upon the theme, “Expanding Opportunity, Empowering Students,” attendees will reflect and participate in more than 40 breakout sessions on topics ranging from supporting rural student success and strengthening family partnerships to building sustainable college-going cultures in schools. Sessions will highlight promising practices, data-driven strategies, and real-world stories from classrooms and communities across the region.

Three keynote speakers will anchor the event, offering powerful perspectives on educational equity and student empowerment. Participants can also look forward to the Professional of the Year Award presentation, recognizing an individual whose exceptional commitment and creativity have made a lasting impact on GEAR UP students and programs.

Beyond sessions and speeches, GEAR UP West provides valuable opportunities for networking and connection. Educators and partners will exchange ideas, explore new tools in the exhibitor space, and share their own stories of perseverance and success, all driven by a shared belief that every student deserves the chance to pursue their future.

For more information about GEAR UP West and the work of Oregon GEAR UP and Oregon Goes To College visit https://oregongoestocollege.org/gearupwest