TRIO Veterans Upward Bound Celebrates Progress, Purpose, and New Beginnings at 2nd Annual Awards Brunch

January 15, 2026

On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the TRIO Veterans Upward Bound program proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Awards Brunch, bringing together participants, staff, and supporters to celebrate academic progress, perseverance, and the next chapter in our veterans’ educational journeys.

This year’s brunch honored 22 Veterans Upward Bound participants who successfully completed the program and earned both a Certificate of Completion and a VUB Challenge Coin—a symbol of resilience, commitment, and readiness for higher education. Each honoree represents not just an academic milestone, but a renewed sense of purpose and possibility.

22 Veterans. 22 New Journeys. Endless Possibilities.

Following program completion, participants are continuing their education and training at institutions and programs including Delgado Community College, University of New Orleans, Southern University at New Orleans, Casino Gaming & Bartending, Legacy Theological School, and New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI). Their paths reflect the diverse goals and ambitions of the veterans we serve—from academic degrees to workforce credentials and vocational training.

Honoring the Team Behind the Mission

The Awards Brunch also served as a moment of gratitude for the dedicated Veterans Upward Bound staff whose work makes these outcomes possible. Pictured (left to right) were Shannon Jones-LaBead, Aaliyah Butler, Bernard Wilkerson, Dr. Tranell Barton, Channel Clivens-Smith, Gingerbread The Original!!, Dede Cale, and Timothy Slack. Not pictured but equally essential to the program’s success were Maddison Gulley, Domonique Love, Darrien Mayfield, and John Perry, III.

Celebrating Staff Graduates

A particularly meaningful highlight of the brunch was the recognition of three outstanding VUB team members—Aaliyah Butler, Darrien Mayfield, and Domonique Love—who graduated from Delgado Community College on December 17, 2025.

Music, Meaning, and Community

Guests were also treated to a special musical performance by Gingerbread The Original!!, joined by Angelamia on guitar. Their performance added warmth and artistry to a celebration rooted in perseverance, service, and shared achievement.

Looking Ahead

The 2nd Annual Veterans Upward Bound Awards Brunch was more than a ceremony—it was a testament to what is possible when targeted academic support, intentional advising, and community come together in service of those who have served. As we reflect on 2025, Veterans Upward Bound remains committed to expanding access, fostering confidence, and guiding veterans toward successful postsecondary outcomes.

We are proud of our participants, grateful for our staff, and excited for all that lies ahead.

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The Trio Veterans Upward Bound Program is designed to assist eligible veterans in their pursuit of higher education by offering a range of services, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and assistance with college admissions and financial aid applications. The program aims to empower veterans who are low-income and first-generation college students with the tools they need to succeed academically and personally.

For more information about the Trio Veterans Upward Bound Program at Delgado Community College, please contact Channel Clivens-Smith at 504-671-5391 or email dccvub@dcc.edu.