Reno Reporter

A University of Nevada, Reno program that provides relief for first-generation students has created a summer program to encourage middle school students to pursue higher education.

According to a July 8 news release by the university, 6th, and 7th graders from Incline Middle School, backed by the Incline Education Fund, are being led by The Nevada First-Gen Network through a pilot program that will expose the students to several science, technology and art endeavors.

"This is an exciting opportunity for the university, our college and the Incline community,” Dean of the College of Education and Human Development, Donald Easton-Brooks, said in the release. “We see the Incline and Tahoe area as an extension of Reno, and a valuable part of the Nevada experience."

The program will foster an environment at the university where students will learn leadership development, art, and culture skills, along with STEM activities, according to the release.

The program, which is based on the university's Dean's Future Scholars (DFS) program, is available to students who are the first in their family to attend an institution of higher learning, the release stated. Applications will be accepted through July 13.

"DFS culture is about giving back and encouraging students to reach their highest potential,” said Zaira Diaz, who was part of the DFS 2016 cohort. “As a DFS program participant myself, it's amazing to see them expand into a much-needed community in the Washoe County School District.”