Promise Programs

At University Opportunity Programs (UOP) we provide transformative educational opportunities and pathways to success for students from nearby communities. UOP offers an integrated and holistic approach to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals. By combining robust academic support, individualized advising, and community engagement, we empower students to navigate their college experience, build meaningful connections, and thrive in their pursuits.

Hartford Promise

Hartford Promise is a transformative college scholarship and support program designed to empower Hartford Public School students by increasing access to higher education and fostering academic success. Since its inception, Hartford Promise has awarded $9.5 million in scholarships, helping more than 1,100 students pursue their college dreams. Eligible students can receive up to $20,000 in scholarship funding, distributed over four years of college, significantly reducing the financial barriers to higher education.

In addition to financial aid, Hartford Promise provides a robust support system, including mentorship, academic guidance, and career development resources, ensuring that students thrive in college and beyond. By creating a culture of academic excellence and opportunity, the program not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens the Hartford community as a whole.

Waterbury Promise

Waterbury Promise is a scholarship and support program dedicated to increasing access to higher education for students in Waterbury. Since its launch in 2021, the program has awarded scholarships to over 500 students, providing financial assistance of up to $20,000 per student, distributed across four years of college. Open to graduates of Waterbury Public Schools, the program seeks to alleviate financial barriers while fostering a culture of academic achievement and opportunity within the community.

In addition to financial aid, Waterbury Promise offers support services, including college readiness resources, mentorship, and career development programs, to help students succeed in higher education and beyond. With an emphasis on creating long-term impact, Waterbury Promise aspires to increase college enrollment and graduation rates among Waterbury youth, strengthening the local workforce and empowering the next generation of leaders. Through this commitment, the program is not only transforming individual lives but also contributing to the overall vitality of the Waterbury community.

New Haven Promise

New Haven Promise is a scholarship and support program dedicated to increasing access to higher education for students in New Haven, Connecticut. Since 2010, the program has provided $33 million in scholarships, helping more than 1,000 graduates of New Haven Public Schools achieve their college goals. Students can receive varied tuition coverage for attending in-state public colleges and universities, and in-state private institutions, which significantly reduces the financial obstacles to earning a degree.

Beyond financial assistance, New Haven Promise offers comprehensive support, including mentoring, career development, and access to internship opportunities, ensuring that students excel both academically and professionally. With a college persistence rate of 67.7%, well above national averages for similar demographics, the program is a proven success. By inspiring academic achievement and preparing students for the workforce, New Haven Promise is making a lasting impact on individual lives and the New Haven community as a whole.