University of the Ozarks has been awarded $1.6 million in anticipated federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Education for its TRIO Student Support Services programs.
The funds are awarded to colleges and universities to provide opportunities for students’ academic development as well as to motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary degrees. Student Support Services programs are under the TRIO umbrella of federal education initiatives, which were established as a result of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964.
The SSS grant is in the amount of $332,864 per year. The anticipated five-year total for the grant is $1,664,320. The program supports 180 students at Ozarks who are either first generation, low-income, and/or have a disability.
“Navigating higher education can be difficult, but this is especially true for first-generation, low-income, and/or student with disabilities,” said Vanessa Hollowell, director of the University’s Student Success Center. “Understanding the specific challenges this student population faces allows my team to develop targeted workshops and provide guidance on students’ educational journey. It is rewarding to watch students face obstacles and challenges, learn to work through them, and ultimately earn their college degree.”
“I am grateful for this grant award which allows us to continue the vital work of supporting underrepresented students who otherwise might not be successful in college. The tools, resources, and skill development afforded through this grant aids students in overcoming barriers. We also help students think about the next steps after earning their degree by providing workshops surrounding financial literacy, career exploration, and graduate school opportunities.”
The goal of TRIO programs is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants, who include students from low-income families, first-generation students and students with disabilities. According to the U.S. Department of Education, SSS programs are designed to “provide opportunities for academic development, assist students with basic college requirements and to motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education.”
In addition, TRIO SSS provides monitored tutoring; academic, career, and financial aid planning; study skills sessions; success workshops; and assistance with researching and applying to graduate schools.
The TRIO SSS program at Ozarks has assisted nearly 700 students over the past five years. The new grant will allow Ozarks to continue its TRIO SSS programs through 2030.
The Student Support Services project at the University of the Ozarks is 100 percent funded by the U.S. Department of Education, with an annual budget of $332,864.
U of O students interested in applying for the SSS program may send an e-mail to studentsuccesscenter@ozarks.edu or visit https://ozarks.edu/academics/student-success-center/ for more information.
Topics: Student Support Services