Saint Anselm College is thrilled to announce that the TRIO Scholars Student Support Services (SSS) grant has been renewed through August 30, 2030! With a perfect proposal score, the $1.36 million renewal marks an increase from the previous grant.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, TRIO Scholars SSS is dedicated to helping students develop the essential skills and motivation needed to successfully earn a bachelor’s degree. In the simplest sense, the program provides training wheels to those coming to college who may not have been able to ride a bike otherwise. It was created to pave a smoother pathway for achieving individuals who may have had to pedal harder.
TRIO Scholars SSS provides a variety of resources aiding in the transition to college. The grant offers one-on-one guidance that will help students create goals and an academic action plan. It offers students’ academic and financial coaching. It assists with the daunting stresses of job searching and resume building. TRIO Scholars SSS even extends to graduate school advising, should students wish to continue their education. Most importantly, the grant extends a space of community and companionship for students who may feel alone.
To be eligible for TRIO Scholars SSS, students must identify with one or more of the following:
- A first-generation college student, meaning that neither of their parent(s) or guardian(s) graduated with a bachelor's degree
- Come from a low-to-modest income background
- Have a registered disability with Disability Services
The renewal of this valuable grant means the College can continue to provide services and vital support to these types of students. The vast world of higher education can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with it, and with TRIO Scholars SSS, some of that anxiety for students and their families is relieved.
“A special thank you goes to TRIO Director Christopher Lee the grant writing and data team—Jenne Powers, Aubrey Scheopner Torres, Sarah Smits Keeney, Joyce Larson, and Christine Gustafson—for their hard work and dedication in making this possible,” said Stephanie Fernandez, Chief Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer. “I want to sincerely thank each of you for your leadership, support, and collaboration with your divisions, which have been essential in helping us achieve this success."