30 Years of Students Leading the Way
Changing the Odds
For three decades, PeerForward (originally named College Summit) has empowered students to lead their peers to college and career. What began as a bold idea—that students are the most powerful force for change—has grown into a wide-reaching network transforming lives and communities.
Our Reach
765k+ students impacted in schools across the U.S. and Bermuda
Our Results
54% higher college enrollment than the low-income national average
Our Legacy
30 years of advancing higher education access, leadership, and impact
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Invest in Their Future and Ours
Every Student Deserves a Path Forward
Too many students with the talent to succeed after high school never get there—not because they lack ability, but because they lack access, guidance, and belief in themselves. In schools across the country, limited counseling resources and complex pathways leave students navigating life-changing decisions on their own.
PeerForward changes that by activating the most powerful force already in every school: students themselves. We train influential Peer Leaders to guide their classmates—creating a ripple effect of support, motivation, and action that reaches entire student bodies.
What started as a single workshop has grown into a movement reaching hundreds of thousands of students—making postsecondary success the expectation, not the exception.
The Stories that Inspire Us
Behind every number is a student whose future has been shaped by peer influence. From first-generation students finding their path to alumni achieving their dreams, these stories show what’s possible when students believe in themselves—and each other.
Dariel's Story
College Summit Alumni | Class of 2012
Dariel Vasquez discovered College Summit as a high school student—and it sparked a lifelong mission. From Harlem to college and now leading a growing national nonprofit, he’s helping young men realize their worth and what’s possible.
Giselle's Story
PeerForward Alumni | Class of 2024
Sometimes leadership begins with a small moment. Giselle Oval discovered PeerForward at Broward College—and found the tools and confidence to succeed while guiding her peers along the way.
Rayne's Story
PeerForward Alumni | Class of 2024
From Peer Leader to Student Regent, Rayne Rivera-Forbes now represents over 170,000 students across Maryland’s university system—bringing her PeerForward leadership to one of the state’s highest student roles.
Building a Legacy of Peer Leaders
Our Journey
Since 1996 (as College Summit), PeerForward has grown into a national force — equipping students not just to access college, but to lead their peers there too.
The Next 30 Years Start Now
For 30 years, PeerForward has proven that students are the most powerful force for change. With your partnership, your support, and your voice, we can reach even more students—and ensure no one navigates their future alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
College Summit evolved into PeerForward in 2016 as the mission grew to support all postsecondary pathways — not just college. The name PeerForward reflects the power of students helping students move forward together toward their future. Learn more.
Companies can partner with PeerForward through mentorship, sponsorship, and employee engagement opportunities that directly support student success and career exploration. To learn more, contact cwilliams@peerforward.org
Your donation helps train Peer Leaders, expand programming to more schools, and unlock critical resources like financial aid for students navigating the path to college and careers. Make a contribution today!
Research shows that students are most influenced by their peers. PeerForward harnesses this dynamic by training influential students to lead schoolwide campaigns that drive real outcomes—like increased FAFSA completion and college enrollment. Learn more.
Yes! Alumni, students, and partners are encouraged to share their experiences to inspire others and strengthen the PeerForward community. Share YOUR Story.
You can get involved by mentoring students, supporting workshops, or partnering with PeerForward to bring programming to your community. Learn more here.
Get in Touch
Have more questions about PeerForward or the 30th Anniversary?