Davis & Elkins College Upward Bound Alumni, Families and Friends

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Davis & Elkins College Upward Bound Alumni, Families and Friends

Connecting alumn, families and friends of the Davis & Elkins College Upward Bound Programs

The Davis & Elkins College Upward Bound Programs have been serving the low income and first generation (TRIO eligible) students of Barbour, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Randolph and Tucker Counties since the 1990's. From the first activities these TRIO programs have impacted numerous students, alumn, families, staff, and friends. May we unite to continue to support equal opportunity, access, and completion of higher education.

08/12/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Michelle Ratnakar!

“My name is Michelle Ratnakar, and I am a proud alumna of the Davis & Elkins College Upward Bound program. Looking back, my educational path was clearly marked from a young age: I graduated from Harman High School in 1992 and then earned my Bachelor of Science in Medical Science from Alderson Broaddus College in 1997. My commitment to healthcare in our community has remained a driving force in my life ever since.

For years, I have served this region as a Physician Assistant (PA) and currently clinical supervisor for our local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). Within this role, I find profound fulfillment managing our School-Based Health Center, where I direct clinical protocols, oversee essential medical care for students, and coordinate vital outreach initiatives. Whether I’m ensuring access to primary care or organizing student sports physicals, my passion is ensuring the next generation has every opportunity to thrive.

In addition to my medical practice, I also recently expanded my reach by becoming a licensed real estate agent. I love the unique opportunity this provides to help families plant roots and build futures within our beautiful West Virginia communities. This balance of public service, from both healthcare and housing, is a direct reflection of the lessons I learned through Upward Bound—lessons of perseverance, connection, and leading with opportunity. I am deeply honored to be featured in this alumni spotlight, and I hope my story inspires current Upward Bound students to dream big and know they can make a lasting impact.

Reflecting on my foundation in the D&E Upward Bound program, I credit that experience with instilling the confidence to pursue my goals. When I am not caring for patients or guiding home buyers, you can find me enjoying my family.

My advice to students is simple: Embrace every mentor, seize every educational chance, and remember that you can build a successful, multi-faceted life that uplifts your community.”

Thank you, Michelle, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey! We are so proud of you and your accomplishments!

07/28/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Beverly Orange!

“I'm from Alpena West Virginia. I participated in Upward Bound at a time when I never really thought college would be part of my future. Upward Bound gave me the encouragement and support I needed to believe that college was possible.

The summer after my junior year of high school, I joined the Army National Guard and went to basic training. After graduating from Harman High school and my advanced Army training at Ft. Lee. I began college at Fairmont State College. Halfway through my senior year, I was called to active duty and thought my college journey was over. While serving, I met my husband, and eventually we moved to Virginia, where I began working as a 911 dispatcher.

Later, I returned to college but after becoming pregnant with twins, I put school on hold to focus on raising my family and working full-time. After having three boys, I went back and finished what I started, graduating from Liberty University with my bachelor’s degree.

Today, I work at a middle school in Roanoke, Virginia, and I am also a published children’s book author. I have written four children’s books that reflect my Christian faith and values. In the future, I hope to continue writing and publishing more books while also continuing to make a difference in the lives of children and families through my work and ministry.

Looking back, Upward Bound gave me the confidence to take those first steps toward college and helped shape the path I followed, even when life took unexpected turns. I’m grateful for the encouragement and support it gave me along the way.

All my boys are taking similar paths. The oldest enlisted in the Army, the middle into the Navy and the youngest will attend Liberty University in the fall. If interested check out my books on Amazon! God bless you all!”

Thank you, Beverly, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey! We are so proud of you and your accomplishments!

06/17/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Traves Lewis!

“Hello, I am Traves Lewis. A 2026 graduate of West Virginia University. I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Agriculture, Animal and Nutritional Sciences. Growing up as a kid and all through life I envisioned myself going to Veterinary School and obtaining my DVM. As life progressed and I grew older I found out that’s not what I wanted to do or i wasn’t 100% sure on that. I was always told to find a career and job that makes you happy and that does not feel like work.

During my last semester at WVU I took the opportunity and accepted an internship in Virginia. This internship took place at one of Virginias largest Equine Breeding and Foaling Facility. After spending some time at this internship, I was recently offered a position to stay full time as a Breeding and Foaling Assistant.
For a quick word, always take those chances. Even if they do not feel like the correct chance in the moment. Always do what makes you happy, even if others do not see it the same way.

Upward Bound has truly shaped me into who I am and who I am becoming. As a first generation student, i didn’t know what college was, or how to go about going to college, applying or anything related to such. UB made those steps clear and precise and easy. Every step of the way felt like a step in the right direction and that step was with ease.

Once again, take chances even if they do not feel like the correct chance at the moment.”

Thank you, Traves, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey! We are so proud of you and your accomplishments!

06/16/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Alicia Kelley!

“Hi, I am Alicia Kelley from Elkins West Virginia. I participated in the upward bound program from 2017-2020 as a student. While in High school I was also in the thespian honor society, honor band, and the old brick playhouse. I was also the 2019 Anne Crum scholarship recipient while in the program. Afterwards I attended Davis and Elkins College where I received my degrees in Criminology, Psychology and Human Services. I was also president of the Criminology club, secretary of Phi Omega Mu and Vice President of the Women in the attic club. I also had the opportunity to present a service learning project at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences in Chicago in 2024. I spent my summers continuing my love with Upward Bound by working with them for three summers. Now i work for Elkins Mountain School in Elkins West Virginia where I am a Case Manager. I have two cats and a dog who are my children! Without Upward Bound I would not be where I am. It has helped shaped me into the woman I am today by showing me how to be a leader as well as showing me how to apply for college. I am so grateful for all this program has done for me and I don’t know where I would be without it!”

Thank you, Alicia, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey! We are so proud of you and your accomplishments!

06/15/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Ashley Ault!

“My name is Ashley Ault (nee Burns). I am a 2005 graduate of Pendleton County High School. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Education from Glenville State College (now University), in 2009.

I reside in Petersburg, WV with my husband, Nick, and my 13 year old daughter, Ava. I am an auntie to five nephews and five nieces and a MiMi to two beautiful granddaughters. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and painting, but my greatest joy is watching my daughter play ball and wrestle. I have been a Wraparound Facilitator for the WV Safe at Home/CSED programs at Burlington United Methodist Family Services, Inc. for 8 ½ years. I have 17 years of social work and case management experience. I attend Petersburg Church of God where I am a member of the praise team and I teach Sunday School. I coached youth league soccer for 4 years before being elected to the Potomac Highlands Soccer League Board of Directors where I currently serve as Vice President.

Upward Bound was an incredible experience from the college campus tours to the summer program to Bridge. UB is one of the greatest college preparatory programs available to high school students and it is responsible for helping me stay the course, making a post-secondary education an achievable goal. Upward Bound built confidence in my own abilities and gave me a "real feel" college experience. It gave me a leg up through opportunities for college credit during my Senior year. I had some stellar mentors in Carol Suder-Howes and Alison Shields during my time in UB and I am grateful for all of their encouragement. Upward Bound was fundamental in shaping my college experience and the person I am today. “

Thank you, Ashley, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey. We are so proud of your accomplishments!

06/12/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Brittany McCollam!

“Hi everyone! My name is Brittany McCollam and I currently live in Morgantown, West Virginia. I got engaged to my fiancé, Emily, in 2024 and we have 3 kitties! I love to travel, read, play guitar hero, and go camping! I previously attended WVU and graduated in 2015 with a bachelors degree in psychology. I started at the Childrens Home Society of WV in 2019 as a Home Finder and am still currently employed there. I just graduated from Concord University with my master of social work and was also involved in the Phi Alpha Honor Society!

Upward Bound was truly an amazing experience for me. I met so many wonderful people and got experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise. From the trips, talent show, pre-college dorm life, and UB Olympics, there was never a dull moment! I am thankful for all the educators that took time out of their summer to prepare us for college and the UB staff that helped give us so many fun experiences!”

Thank you, Brittany, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey! We are so proud of your accomplishments!

06/11/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Shelby Broseker!

“My name is Shelby Broseker, i am from Elkins WV. After graduating from Upward Bound, I went on to graduate from Fairmont State University with a bachelor's in nursing and a minor in forensics. After graduating I started working locally, last year I moved to Savannah, Ga and am working in a level 1 trauma ER. In August I will be moving to Alaska for a year. I love traveling and love that I have a career that allows me to do that.

Upward bound gave me opportunities I never thought were possible and helped guide me on what I could do, how to apply to colleges, how to get scholarships, and overall, how to make lifetime memories and friends. I don’t think I would be where I am today without all of their help!”

Thank you, Shelby, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey. We are so proud of your accomplishments!

06/10/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Allyssa Morgan!

“I’m originally from Pendleton county, WV! I now live in Morgantown, WV where I continued my education and obtained my associate degree in nursing and I’m currently working on obtaining my BSN. I work on the neonatal intensive care unit at the children’s hospital in Morgantown! I absolutely love and adore my job with the sweetest patient population. On the side, I do in home nursing for the sweetest little girl who is the strongest fighter I know, and also nanny for one of the best families! My future goals right now are to finish my BSN, start travel nursing, and possibly go to perfusion school. Upward bound provided me with lots of experiences and opportunities that I’m so thankful for. One of the memories that stick with me is probably the NYC trip, even though the AC on the bus broke coming home! Upward bound allowed me to have options for continuing my education and provided me with support every step of the way. I can’t thank the staff members enough who helped me along the way!”

Thank you, Allyssa, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey. We re so proud of your accomplishments!

06/09/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Kaley Sponaugle!

Meet Kaley, a 2020 graduate of Pendleton County High School from Brandywine, West Virginia, who has been on an incredible academic journey since her time in Upward Bound! She has already earned two degrees—an Associate’s from Potomac State College and a Bachelor of Science from West Virginia University. Following her graduation from WVU, she relocated to Starkville, Mississippi, with her fiancé, Zane, and their beloved fur baby, Eileen. Her journey doesn’t stop there, as she is currently preparing for her next big move to Memphis, Tennessee, where she will begin her third degree—a professional doctorate at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry! 🦷

Looking back on her success, Kaley shares: "Upward Bound was essential for me. Graduating from high school in 2020 in the midst of COVID was challenging, and she was very thankful for the knowledge and support from Upward Bound. “I had no idea how to navigate the complex world of starting college. UB didn’t just give me a roadmap—they gave me the tools, confidence, and foundational support to realize that higher education was completely within my reach."

Thank you, Kaley, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey. We are so proud of your accomplishments!

06/08/2026

Our next alumni spotlight: Kelsey Armentrout!

“My name is Kelsey Armentrout from Upper Tract, WV! I am a new grad from West Virginia University with a Doctorate of Occupational Therapy degree, with a previous bachelors degree in Health and Well-Being. My future plans include staying in Pendleton County to serve a community that is near and dear to my heart.

Upward Bound helped me to prepare for independence in college-life, and taught me so many life skills that were necessary for success. My favorite memory has to be the NYC trip, but the entire experience was unforgettable and truly life-changing.”

Thank you, Kelsey, for sharing your story, and for letting Upward Bound be part of your journey! We are so proud of you.

Address

Elkins, WV
26241

Website

http://deupwardbound.org/

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