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UA - Pulaski Tech TRIO receives renewed funding for student support services

University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College’s TRIO Student Support Services Grant has received renewed funding at UA-PTC for a total of $1,430,545, extending the program at the two-year college through 2030.

TRIO Student Support Services program currently serves 180 UA - Pulaski Tech students who qualify for services. Students must be first-generation college students (neither parent has a baccalaureate), meet income requirements based on family size, and/or have a documented disability. The program, which serves low income, first generation, and/or disabled college students at UA-PTC, is 100% funded by the United States Department of Education. TRIO has served UA-PTC students since 2006.

“TRIO Student Support Services is a competitive grant and earning a five-year grant is very difficult,” said Program Director Mary Kate Snow. “The TRIO SSS grant competition opens every five years. Colleges and universities submit applications for review and grants are awarded based on the overall score of the application. The TRIO SSS program at UA-PTC has an excellent record of success, with 87% of participants persisting in college from one program year to the next and 65% of participants graduating within three years.”

The program helps college students increase their potential for academic success and aids in their transition into their next level of higher education. The goal of TRIO Student Support Services is to cultivate essential skills and guide students to scholarly attainment. Program services include academic advising, professional tutoring, financial literacy, college transfer assistance, cultural events, and enrichment workshops.

“TRIO has a proven track record of helping students to excel, persist in college, graduate, and go on to have successful careers. I commend the staff and leadership of TRIO Student Support Services for their long record of success,” said UA-PTC Chancellor Summer DeProw. “It’s an important achievement that improves the lives of students and the lives of their families as well.”