It's an award program designed to celebrate outstanding students within the Step Up For Students scholarship program.

A "Rising Star" in the context of "Step Up For Students" refers to a student enrolled in their scholarship program who is recognized for demonstrating exceptional academic achievement, personal growth, leadership qualities, or significant improvement, essentially highlighting students who are considered to be on a trajectory for great success in the future; these students are often honored through a special "Rising Stars Awards" ceremony hosted by Step Up For Students.