GADSDEN, AL. – Underrepresented groups at Gadsden State Community College receive valuable support from TRIO programs created to eliminate barriers to higher education. The federal programs are funded through Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and are designed to help students overcome challenges, such as economic hardship, educational deficits and social obstacles. The programs will be celebrated and recognized on National TRIO Day on Feb. 22.
“TRIO programs are an essential part of Gadsden State’s commitment to increasing college access and graduation rates for those who need it most,” said Pam Johnson, dean of Institutional Effectiveness, Grants and Programs.
Gadsden State receives federal funds to support the five TRIO programs – Student Support Services, Upward Bound, Veterans Upward Bound, Educational Talent Search and the Cheaha Educational Opportunity Center. The programs serve individuals ranging from middle school students to veterans.
“Through these programs, Gadsden State has helped thousands of students achieve their academic dreams, no matter their background or life circumstances,” Johnson said. “These programs are integral in making higher education assessable and attainable for those who may not otherwise have the resources or support to succeed.”
Student Support Services serves 600 Gadsden State students who are first-generation, low-income and/or disabled. The program offers an array of services, including tutoring, academic advising and career counseling.
“Everything SSS does is designed to help students navigate their collegiate experience,” she said. “Our goal is to provide a comfortable and supportive environment where all students can thrive. We are proud to ensure that these students have every opportunity to succeed.”
The Upward Bound program offers college preparatory support for low-income, first-generation high school students. Serving 78 students in Etowah County and 50 students in Calhoun County, the program provides tutoring, mentoring and college admissions assistance.
“Upward Bound is about building confidence to enroll in college after high school and giving students the tools they need to succeed in college and beyond,” Johnson said.
Gadsden State’s Veterans Upward Bound serves 125 veterans across 12 counties in Alabama. The program helps veterans prepare for college by providing free services, such as academic tutoring, test preparation and college and career counseling.
“Our veterans have already served their country, and now it’s our turn to serve them,” she said. “VUB ensures they have the academic support and resources they need to achieve their career goals and succeed in higher education.”
Educational Talent Search is offered on the Wallace Drive and Ayers campuses. The program assists middle and high school students in grades 6-12 in succeeding academically in preparation for college. ETS staff focus on increasing graduation rates, college enrollment and post-secondary completion.
“ETS prepares students for high school graduation and sets them up for lifelong success,” Johnson said.
The Cheaha Educational Opportunity Center supports adult students seeking a high school equivalency diploma and planning to enroll in post-secondary education. The EOC serves 850 students in Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne and Etowah counties.
“The EOC is dedicated to helping individuals who may have thought college was out of reach,” Johnson said. “It provides them with the tools to complete their high school education and pursue their dreams of higher education. In a lot of cases, the EOC breaks the cycle of poverty for many families in our community.”
Johnson said she is proud that Gadsden State has programs that help a variety of student groups achieve their goals.
“TRIO programs are empowering people to succeed,” she said. “They are making a lasting impact on students’ lives and shaping the future of higher education in our region.”
For more information, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/trio.
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