The UT Libraries’ Community Learning and Engagement team is pioneering a unique initiative called 2ndBRIDGE (Building Relationships, Insight, Discovery, Global, Enlightenment). The program bridges the gap between K–12 schooling and higher education. It provides a strong foundation for students to make connections, fuel their creativity, and understand what to expect as they consider pursuing a college degree or another postsecondary pathway. It serves diverse communities, including rural and international communities, by establishing outreach programs that address their evolving needs and demands.

The 2ndBRIDGE program commenced with a partnership involving Algood Middle School, a rural school in Cookeville, Tennessee. A large percentage of Algood students are from low-income families, and many students would be the first generation in their families to attain a college degree. Algood students were invited to UT for an inaugural 2ndBRIDGE event, where they participated in a series of activities designed to spark their interest in STEM and college life. One highlight was a session with the Haslam College of Business. Participants played a Jeopardy!-style game focused on business principles, fostering healthy competition and engaged learning. At a tabling event, they spoke with UT students from various disciplines and interacted with representatives from about 15 campus partners. Those conversations provided insights into the realities of campus life, managing classes, and navigating college preparation.

The program extends beyond one-time visits. 2ndBRIDGE is collaborating with UUNIK Academy, a Knoxville nonprofit organization, to develop a yearlong curriculum that uses UT’s campus as a vibrant learning environment. The Community Learning and Engagement team has joined forces with various campus departments and programs to create interactive classroom activities that offer insights into real-world applications of STEM concepts. With project-based learning as a key component of the program, students will be able to hone their skills in research, presentation, and critical thinking while fostering memorable experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings. 

The next goal is to create programming that will include various 4-H programs and camps. 

2ndBRIDGE is about empowering students to become active participants in their own learning journey. Reshaping this model of engaged scholarship is yielding innovative partnerships and a commitment to immersive learning.