Program Overview
The Nebraska College Preparatory Academy (NCPA) is an innovative college access program that prepares first-generation students from income-eligible families for college and their future careers. NCPA scholars who successfully complete NCPA high school requirements have access to the support of a community of peers, academic support and personal development opportunities throughout college. NCPA’s college scholars also receive full financial assistance to pay the cost of college, including tuition, books, housing and meals, and fees.
Learn more about NCPA’s goals to serve as many high school scholars as possible and set them up for success in college.
The Pillars of Excellence
NCPA provides academic, social and college preparation through the Pillars of Excellence:
Knowledge
NCPA Scholars strive to gain new and innovative knowledge by achieving academic success both inside and outside of the classroom.
Character
NCPA Scholars will make moral and ethical decisions, promote honesty and carry themselves with integrity.
Commitment
NCPA Scholars illustrate their commitment by meeting obligations set by the NCPA program, their respective high schools and the college they attend.
Outcomes
NCPA is uniquely positioned within the university system, allowing program staff to leverage their understanding of higher education to prepare scholars to flourish and thrive within university structures. It incorporates a strengths-based approach to scholar retention strategies. The program's 1-to-1 philosophy provides a positive alternative to most retention programs—to focus on the unique strengths of first-generation college students.
Knowledge, Character and Commitment
Ellie Mora
"My childhood taught me to be independent, brave and a leader. Most importantly, it taught me never to let the world push me down. NCPA is the reason I am ambitious and can go to college."
Finding a Support System
Karla Hernandez Granillo
"Both of my parents are from Hidalgo, Mexico. My number one goal is always to make my family proud, which is something I have stuck to these past few years."
Building Confidence
Alex George
"My favorite part of NCPA is how supportive the scholars and staff are. NCPA has opened many doors for me and helped my confidence."
Learn more about how NCPA’s proven model has positively impacted the lives of its scholars and their families.
Future Scholars
NCPA seeks academically-talented students who will be attending Grand Island Senior High School, Omaha North High School, Omaha South High School or Omaha Bryan High School. Learn how to apply for NCPA and make college a reality.
High School Scholars
Explore what it is like being an NCPA high school scholar—from the requirements to the exclusive opportunities.
College Scholars
Getting to college isn’t the end of the road for NCPA. See how college scholars are supported from their first day to their graduation day.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
Support NCPA
NCPA's donor base shares a common commitment to serving first-generation income-eligible students and communities.
Learn how you can support NCPA and their mission to serve first-generation, low-income students who aim to graduate with a college degree.
If you would like to learn more about how you or your organization can help support NCPA's efforts, please contact:
Joanna Nordhues
Assistant Vice President
University of Nebraska Foundation
402-458-1178
joanna.nordhues@nufoundation.org