News

UA - Pulaski Tech TRIO grant extends vital student support services program to Little Rock - South site

UA - Pulaski Tech celebrated a milestone in student service and advocacy as students, faculty, staff, and guests gathered at a well-attended open house event for the new TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program at the Little Rock-South site.

The event highlighted the suite of resources made possible by a $1,361,820 federal grant which was awarded in October 2025. The funding not only secures the program’s operations through 2030 but also expands its reach to 140 additional students at the South site.

“Expanding TRIO Student Support Services to Little Rock-South is a game-changer in terms of the support we can offer the students who attend here,” said Associate Vice Chancellor for TRIO Programs and Veteran Services MaryKate Snow. “Ours was the only new program funded in the state.”

The open house allowed guests to meet the new Little Rock-South leadership team, including Assistant Director Eureka Ice and Education Specialist Marvene Allen.

Visitors toured the new facilities in Room 222, where the program will provide academic advising, professional tutoring, financial literacy workshops, and space to study, collaborate, and socialize.

For the students served by the South site, the new location removes a significant barrier to accessing support.

“We have years of data showing how TRIO students succeed academically and graduate at higher rates,” said UA-PTC Chancellor Summer DeProw. “Students’ lives and the lives of their families are transformed.”

The program is designed specifically for first-generation college students, those who meet federal income requirements, or students with documented disabilities. Beyond traditional tutoring, the program offers cultural events and college transfer assistance to help students transition to four-year universities.

According to program data, the TRIO model has proven highly effective at UA-PTC, with 87% of participants persisting in their studies from year to year and 65% graduating within three years.

Applications for the program remain open until the maximum number of 140 students are enrolled. Learn more at uaptc.edu/trio.

The TRIO SSS program has served the UA-PTC community since 2006 and remains 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The UA-PTC Little Rock-South program was the only new program funded for the State of Arkansas and only one of 150 funded nationwide.

Photo Caption: Associate Vice Chancellor for TRIO Programs and Veteran Services MaryKate Snow addresses the gathering Feb. 12