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Duke University and NEON: Bridging Educational Gaps

In a groundbreaking initiative, Duke University has teamed up with the National Education Opportunity Network (NEON) to bring college-level education to talented scholars from low-income high schools across the nation. This partnership aims to address the disparities in educational opportunities and provide aspiring students with invaluable resources to elevate their academic journeys.

Opportunity for Talented Scholars

In the Spring of 2026, more than 200 high school students will engage in a course specially designed and taught by a Duke University professor. This program reflects a shared belief that, while talent is evenly distributed among students, opportunities are often not. Dean Gary Bennett of Trinity College of Arts and Sciences remarked on Duke's deep commitment to using education as a transformative power for communities.

NEON focuses on surmounting barriers to education by delivering college credit-bearing courses within Title 1 high schools, ensuring cost-free access and essential support to its scholars. This partnership is an extension of NEON's ongoing mission since its inception in 2019, when it began serving students and has positively impacted over 50,000 scholars in various locations throughout the United States, including major cities and rural areas.

Course Details and Support Structure

The course offered, “Medical Sociology: Who Gets Sick and Why?”, will be led by Professor Tyson Brown, a prominent figure in the field. This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of how societal factors and power structures influence health outcomes. Scholars will be exposed to the same rigorous curriculum that Duke undergraduates experience, thereby challenging them to excel.

In addition to the course materials, students will benefit from interactive video lectures and direct support from their high school teachers, along with weekly Zoom sessions facilitated by university teaching fellows. This mentoring approach aims to deepen their understanding of content while guiding them through discussions related to college preparation and success. NEON remains actively involved, providing ongoing training and resources to ensure a supportive learning environment.

A Vision for Impactful Partnerships

The enthusiasm expressed by both Duke faculty and NEON representatives underscores the potential of this initiative to shape the lives of participating students. Professor Brown articulated the importance of showing young scholars how their ambitions can manifest into real-life achievements through education.

The partnership resonates with NEON's vision of fostering economic mobility and removing barriers to higher education. As Leslie Cornfeld, NEON's founder, noted, welcoming Duke University into their network signifies a growing commitment to broadening access to education, thereby enabling more students to pursue their dreams.

Closing Thoughts

With its innovative approach, this collaboration between Duke University and NEON serves as a model for educational institutions aiming to reduce inequalities in academia. By providing these talented high school students with unique opportunities, both organizations are paving the way for a brighter future, where educational and economic prospects are not dictated by socioeconomic status. As this partnership unfolds, it is set to create a lasting impact on communities across the nation, inspiring the next generation of leaders and change-makers to thrive.

In sum, this initiative is not just an educational program but a movement towards enhancing access and opportunity for all deserving students. By recognizing and addressing educational gaps, Duke University and NEON collectively hold the potential to redefine the landscape of higher education in America.