Fresno Unified School District (FUSD) is deepening its commitment to college readiness by expanding its HBCU Step-Up Program, adding a new partnership with Fort Valley State University, a historically Black college in Georgia.
The collaboration will extend dual-enrollment opportunities to 70 additional students from Sunnyside and McLane high schools, allowing them to earn up to 13 free college credits before graduation.
Strengthening College Pathways
The HBCU Step-Up Program is designed to boost graduation rates, increase college access, and expose students to the academic and cultural benefits of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
“Expanding the Step-Up program gives more of our students the chance to experience the rigor of college courses and get a head start on general education classes,” said Superintendent Misty Her. “It also connects them to the rich academic and cultural legacy of HBCUs.”
Fort Valley State — whose motto is “Empower the Possible” — joins Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, which has partnered with Fresno Unified since the program’s launch in 2022.
How the Program Works
Students participating in the Step-Up program take college-level classes taught by Ph.D.-level professors from the partner universities. The courses — which include communications, psychology, and other general education subjects — satisfy both high school and college requirements and are transferable to most four-year institutions.
Participants are also eligible for:
- Scholarships for students maintaining a 3.2 GPA or higher
- A nine-day college campus tour, including a visit to the partnering university
- Priority admission consideration at participating HBCUs
Most students’ tuition and fees are covered by scholarships, while Pell Grants often assist with room and board, according to district spokesperson Diana Diaz.
Proven Success and Measurable Impact
Since its debut, the HBCU Step-Up Program has demonstrated strong outcomes:
- The first cohort (56 students) saw 32% enroll at HBCUs and nearly all others attend California colleges or universities.
- The second cohort showed academic gains, raising average GPAs from 2.7 to 3.3.
- Several alumni are now attending Benedict College, continuing their higher education journeys.
“What makes our program unique is that it’s the only one of its kind nationwide,” said Diaz. “Most HBCU dual-enrollment programs only serve in-state students — Fresno Unified is breaking that mold.”
Looking Ahead
Now in its third cohort, Step-Up continues to grow. Diaz said the district is already exploring a third university partnership to include Roosevelt and Hoover High Schools within the next two years.
“We’re doing this intentionally — learning from what works and making sure we get it right,” Diaz said.
Joining the Program
Students are selected by district teams focused on college and career readiness, Step-Up counseling, and the Office of African American Academic Acceleration.
To participate, students must:
- Maintain at least a C grade or higher in high school and college courses
- Uphold a code of conduct and good behavioral standing
- Attend all Step-Up activities, including the HBCU College Campus Tour, Kickoff Reception, and Boot Camp
The district also provides college-readiness workshops, leadership conferences, and financial aid sessions to support students through the process.
The Big Picture
By partnering with HBCUs and expanding dual-enrollment opportunities, Fresno Unified continues its mission to help students — especially first-generation and underrepresented youth — graduate high school ready to thrive in higher education and beyond.
“This investment gives our students confidence and exposure,” said Diaz. “It shows them that college isn’t just possible — it’s achievable.”
