Since its founding by Larry Hawkins more than 40 years ago, the mission of the Office of Special Programs-College Prep (OSP-CP) at the University of Chicago has not changed: To engage underserved urban high school students in academic, cultural, and recreational activities. These activities are reinforced with college and career guidance. OSP-CP activities help to equip students with higher-order thinking and lifelong learning skills. This preparation will ensure their acceptance and enrollment in an accredited institution of higher education.