Building Pathways and Breaking Barriers: A “True Grit” Gathering at UMBC

At College Track, we believe that the journey to a bachelor’s degree is not one that should be traveled alone. It requires a community of support, a clear vision of the future, and—a healthy dose of “True Grit.”

On March 23, the College Track community joined University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) faculty, staff, and university leadership on campus for “A True Grit Gathering” — an evening dedicated to celebrating their partnership, welcoming newly admitted scholars from the Durant Center, and giving prospective scholars from both the Durant Center and the new Baltimore Ravens College Track Center a tangible glimpse of their future on a college campus.

Experience Through the Eyes of a Peer

The afternoon began with a panel led by UMBC College Track Scholars and Thrive Coach and UMBC alum Ramon Hilliard. Newly admitted and prospective scholars had the opportunity to learn about the college experience, campus life, and the importance of building community during their college years.

Following the panel, scholars embarked on a campus tour unlike any other. Rather than a standard information session, prospective scholars—high school students currently in the College Track program and considering UMBC—were guided by current UMBC students. This peer-to-peer experience offered a genuine look at what it means to navigate a four-year university, from the best study spots to balancing rigorous academics with campus life.

Having a guide who has walked the same path—from College Track to UMBC—gave our younger scholars a vivid and inspiring roadmap for their own future success, showing them that a degree from a top-tier institution is not just a dream, but an achievable goal.

Opening Doors and Defining the Pipeline

As the sun set, the group moved into a formal university partner dinner, where the atmosphere was one of celebration and shared purpose.

Dale Bittinger, UMBC’s Assistant Vice Provost of Strategic Undergraduate Engagement, Partnerships, and Pathways, opened the evening’s program. His remarks highlighted the strong alignment between College Track’s mission and UMBC’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education. He spoke passionately about the launch of our Baltimore site, UMBC’s dedication to Baltimore City, and his eagerness to welcome more scholars to campus for future events. He closed his remarks by encouraging scholars to dream big and embrace the possibilities ahead.

One of the highlights of the evening was an interactive activity called “Pipeline,” led by Jennifer Riehl, Senior Assistant Director of Campus Visits and Events in UMBC’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Working in teams alongside faculty, staff, and current UMBC students, College Track scholars collaborated to transport different-sized balls down a long hallway using limited materials. The activity served as a powerful metaphor for the journey from high school to college graduation, challenging scholars to practice teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance—while experiencing firsthand the pipeline of support available through both College Track and UMBC.

A 10-Year Commitment in Action

This gathering was more than just a dinner—it was a reflection of College Track’s 10-year integrated program in action. By bringing together high school and college scholars, UMBC alumni, faculty, staff, and university leadership, we continue to bridge the gap between high school potential and college success.

“I’ve always believed that some of the deepest connections are formed around a table. I wanted to co-create a space with UMBC where scholars, faculty, and staff could come together—not defined by their roles, but united in our shared humanity.

As scholars navigate their college decisions, they’re searching for more than academics—they’re searching for belonging. At this dinner, they didn’t just hear about the community—they felt it. They experienced what it means to be welcomed, to be seen, and to have a seat at the table.

In that space, they were invited to dream—not just of where they could go, but of who they could become, and the tables they will one day build for others.

I’m excited about what this initiative represents and look forward to building on this momentum as we continue to expand opportunities for our scholars—together.”

— Danielle Galloway, Director of College Counseling & Partnership Strategy, Greater U.S.

We are incredibly grateful to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County for their hospitality and unwavering commitment to our scholars. Together, we are ensuring that the next generation of leaders has the grit, the resources, and the community to rise.

Join the Movement

To learn more about how College Track is partnering with universities across the country to support our scholars from high school through college graduation and beyond, visit our University Partnerships page.