The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Lakeshore College a federal TRIO Student Support Services grant totaling $1.36 million to improve college retention and graduation rates among low-income students, first-generation students, and students with disabilities.
Lakeshore said in a release it will receive $272,364 annually for the next five years. The program, however, could face cuts or elimination. President Donald Trump has proposed eliminating the U.S. Department of Education entirely and a federal budget proposal earlier this year specifically named TRIO grants as a target for elimination.
This 15th year TRIO services have been provided on Lakeshore’s campus. Since 2010, the program has served over 1,000 students, helping them stay in college, earn degrees, and build meaningful careers.
“This grant allows Lakeshore College to continue to provide critical targeted, holistic support for low-income and first-generation students as well as students with disabilities,” said Dr. Paul Carlsen, president of Lakeshore College. “The staff members and efforts supported by this funding can be the difference to help our students stay on track, reach their goals and change their lives.”
Through individualized services including academic tutoring, financial aid, career exploration, and mentoring, TRIO empowers students to overcome barriers to success. These comprehensive supports make it significantly more likely that students will complete their degree or successfully transfer to a four-year university, with the lowest possible debt.
For more information about TRIO Student Support Services at Lakeshore College, visit lakeshore.edu.
