The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has received $286,104 from the U.S. Department of Education to help students stay in college and graduate. The money comes from a federal program called TRIO Student Support Services.

TRIO SSS supports students who come from families with low incomes, are the first in their families to go to college or have disabilities.

Pitt-Bradford has been part of TRIO SSS for 20 years. Since 2005, the program has helped more than 1,750 students succeed in college, finish their degrees, and start careers.

“This grant helps us make sure all students can succeed, no matter their background,” said Richard Esch, president of Pitt-Bradford. “TRIO gives students the support they need to graduate and lead meaningful lives.”

TRIO SSS offers services like tutoring, academic advising, and provides workshops and classes on various topics, which include organization, time management, career readiness, study and life skills. These services help students to feel more prepared and motivated to achieve both their academic and career goals.

Across the country, TRIO SSS works. A study in 2019 showed that students in the program at four-year colleges were 18% more likely to graduate than those who didn’t use the program.

“TRIO SSS transforms students from the least-resourced backgrounds into college graduates,” said Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education in Washington, D.C. “This vital program makes all the difference for nearly a million students each year across the country.”

TRIO SSS is one of eight federal TRIO programs created to help students overcome barriers to college. It began in 1968 and has helped millions of students reach their goals.

To learn more about TRIO at Pitt-Bradford, visit upb.pitt.edu or contact Dr. Pamela Thompson, assistant dean of academic success and advising, at pht14@pitt.edu.