Kimberly Spicer, program specialist in the Student Success Center, was recognized recently for 25 years of working and supporting TRIO students at University of the Ozarks.
Spicer, a 1998 graduate of Ozarks, was honored by the Arkansas Association of Student Assistance Programs (AASAP) at its annual conference in Rogers, Ark., Oct. 8-10.
Spicer has worked at the University since she graduated from Ozarks, including more than decade working directly with TRIO students. The TRIO programs are federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. They are administered, funded, and implemented by the United States Department of Education.
Vanessa Hollowell, director of the Student Success Center, said Spicer’s roles at Ozarks have changed over the years, which has allowed her to support students within the TRIO program in a number of ways.
“A few of those include, directing career services, connecting students with tutors, providing academic pre-advising, and leading various programs including our first-generation celebration,” Hollowell said. “Kimberly connects with first-gen students, which is the focus of TRIO, because she herself is a first-generation college student. She understands the challenges first-gen students face and is able to use her own experience to guide students throughout their educational journey. Her longevity with both Ozarks and TRIO shows her dedication to student success. I am blessed for her to be a part of our TRIO team.”
Topics: Academic Support