U.S. Congressman Buddy Carter recently announced that Armstrong State University has been awarded a $1.1 million TRIO Student Support Services grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
 
TRIO grants are used to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds with the goal of increasing college retention and graduation rates. Through a grant competition, awarded institutions of higher education use the TRIO grant to provide opportunities for academic development, assist students with basic college requirements and motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education. SSS projects also provide grant aid to current SSS participants receiving Federal Pell Grants.
 
At Armstrong, this five-year grant will assist 140 eligible low-income, first-generation and disabled student participants with a multitude of services including comprehensive academic advising, developing an individual academic success plan with an academic coach, financial planning, tutoring and FAFSA completion. Students will also receive assistance applying to graduate and professional schools, career counseling, peer and faculty mentoring, study skill development assistance, direct financial support and exposure to cultural activities in Savannah.
 
“This grant will be a great help to students who want to further their education, but lack the comprehensive support services to do so,” said Armstrong’s Associate Provost of Student Engagement and Success Dr. Delana Gajdosik-Nivens. “It will make it possible for participants to graduate well-prepared for employment and for graduate or professional schools.”