Ibn Dinkins

In his role as UBP Counselor, Mr. Ibn Dinkins travels weekly to Upward Bound target schools around the Commonwealth to engage with UBP participants. Ibn is not only a counselor for UBP, but he is also a proud 2003 Alumnus of Upward Bound - a shining example of what the program can produce when participants take full advantage of the opportunities presented to them while in TRiO programs. While Ibn was enrolled at Johnson C. Smith University, an HBCU founded in 1867, TRiO programs’ assistance helped further his education. “I became inspired by the help I received from the many adults who went above and beyond their job descriptions to get me to where I am today.” Ibn took that inspiration and has made a career out of giving back to students who share the same demographic background as he did, low income & first-generation to college students.

Mr. Dinkins spent six years teaching in both New Jersey’s public & charter schools, scratching off one of his bucket list items by teaching at his alma mater, Weequahic High School, in Newark, New Jersey. Ibn’s passion for helping the next generation gain access to higher education motivates him in his current role as a counselor with Penn State Upward Bound. Ibn is looking forward to helping Upward Bound participants reach their desired goals and full potential.

Education

• Johnson C. Smith University, B.A., Education
• University of Phoenix, M.Ed., Adult Education and Training