Kristin Lewis has been named director of pre-college programs at Central College.
Lewis oversees Central’s Talent Search, Upward Bound I and Upward Bound II. Each year, these TRIO programs provide tutoring, counseling, mentoring, financial guidance and access to college education to more than 1,000 participating students from area middle and high schools. All students in the program are income-eligible and/or are potential first-generation college students.
“I am excited for the opportunity to continue my work with Central’s pre-college programs as the director,” says Lewis. “Our TRIO Talent Search and Upward Bound programs have a rich history with proven results for our students, and I look forward to leading that continued positive impact in the years to come.”
Lewis has nearly eight years of previous experience with the college’s TRIO Talent Search program. She earned her undergraduate degree in elementary education from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, and obtained an M.A. in education: curriculum and instruction from the University of Kansas in Lawrence. Lewis also holds an Iowa Teaching License.
“Kristin brings extensive knowledge working with Talent Search grant requirements, assisting students and parents through the college selection process, as well as working with underrepresented populations,” says Carol Williamson, Central’s vice president for student development. “Her experience will be a wonderful asset for families.”
Central’s pre-college programs are federally funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Competitions for grant renewal happen every four to five years. Central’s programs have been continuously funded since 1966.
