For four decades, the UMSL Bridge Program has stood as a beacon of equity, access, and excellence—empowering students, supporting families, and transforming futures across the St. Louis region. Founded in 1986 under the visionary leadership of Chancellor Marguerite Ross Barnett, Bridge was born out of a bold commitment to close opportunity gaps and prepare underrepresented students for college and beyond.
Today, as we celebrate our 40th Saturday Academy, we honor a legacy that has touched thousands of lives: a 100% high school graduation and college enrollment rate, nationally recognized awards for excellence, and alumni who are now educators, engineers, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders. These outcomes are not chance—they are the result of an unwavering commitment to academic enrichment, mentorship, and holistic support that changes the trajectory of generations.
But Bridge is more than its history—it is a promise for the future. As we look ahead to the next 40 years, Bridge remains a cornerstone of UMSL’s mission to advance educational equity, strengthen the regional talent pipeline, and prepare students to lead in fields that shape our communities and economy.
Your support makes this possible. By investing in the Bridge Program, you are investing in opportunity, in excellence, and in the promise of tomorrow’s leaders. Together, we celebrate 40 years of impact—and build toward a future of limitless possibility.
Your gift makes a lasting impact. Together, we can continue to change lives, break down barriers, and build brighter futures.
Bridge Program Alumni Connection
If you’ve participated in any of our Bridge Programs since 1986, we want to hear from you! Please click the link so that we can reconnect with you.
