“A Program That Changed My Life”: Kenyon Black on the Power of Upward Bound
When Kenyon Black first walked through the doors at Le Moyne College, he didn’t know he was about to find his life’s calling. He had only planned to stay in Syracuse for two years—long enough to earn his master’s degree and return to North Carolina. But something happened that changed everything: he joined the Upward Bound program.
Now, as Program Director, Kenyon is more than just a mentor—he’s a beacon of what’s possible when someone believes in you, meets you where you are, and reminds you of your potential.
"I Was an Athlete-Student, Not a Student-Athlete"
Growing up in Syracuse, Kenyon openly admits that school wasn’t his strength. “All four years of high school, I went to summer school. I never walked at graduation,” he says. “It wasn’t until I got to college that I learned I could be academically sound.” That lived experience is exactly what fuels his work today. He knows firsthand how easy it is to fall behind, and how life-changing it can be to have someone who sees past your grades and into your potential.
"These Kids Have Lived a Full Life by 14"
Kenyon doesn’t shy away from hard truths. Many of the students in Upward Bound carry the weight of adult-level challenges. “These kids have dealt with trauma and normalized it,” he says. “They’ve lived full lives by the time they’re 14 or 15. And yet, they show up.” That’s why Upward Bound isn’t just about academics. It’s about trust. Support. A space to let your guard down. “They come in with walls, protective barriers. Because too many people have come and gone from their lives. But once they realize we're not going anywhere, that's when real growth begins.”
"We Build the Whole Student"
At the heart of Upward Bound is a philosophy Kenyon lives by: education is more than a textbook. “It’s not just about test scores or GPAs. It’s about identity, resilience, and life skills,” he says. “We’re building the whole student.” That means introducing students to college campuses. Taking them to museums. Teaching them how to open a bank account, write a résumé, or even get a library card for the first time. It’s academic prep, yes, but it’s also preparation for life.
"Every Student Gives Me Something"
This work goes both ways. “All the kids in this program have given me something,” Kenyon says. “Hope. Perspective. Gratitude.” And they teach him too about faith, perseverance, and what it means to lead with love. “They know what makes me happy. A text saying, ‘Hey Mr. Black, here’s how I’m doing in college.’ That’s my paycheck.”
“Don’t Chase Money—Chase Your Passion”
It’s advice Kenyon gives often: “Don’t chase money; chase your passion.” He’s living proof that when you lean into what brings you joy, the impact follows. “I wasn’t fulfilled in corporate America. But working with these students? That fills my heart.”
The Invitation
To the student who thinks college might not be for them.
To the parent who sees their child’s potential but isn’t sure how to help them reach it.
To the family who wants more for their future: Upward Bound is here.
It’s not just a program. It’s a promise. That your child will be seen, heard, and supported. That their full potential will be nurtured—not just academically, but personally. Because at Upward Bound, we build the whole student.
