This post is part of Transform Consulting Group’s blog series highlighting federal programs that provide educational opportunities and/or youth development services in communities across the country. The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) include eight programs designed to promote the attainment of postsecondary education for all students, especially those most in need of additional support. Federal TRIO programs focus on individuals that are low-income, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities who face difficulties advancing from middle school through postsecondary. This year marks 50 years of TRIO programs and services!
The term “TRIO” was coined in the late 1960s to describe the original three (of eight) federal outreach programs. The first was Upward Bound, which came from the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 in response to the “War on Poverty”. The second program was Talent Search, which was created with the passing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The third program, Student Support Services, was created out of the Higher Education Amendments in 1968.
Through the decades, TRIO has expanded by adding five programs to provide more services and reach more students who are in need of assistance. The eight Federal TRIO Programs include:
- Upward Bound
- Talent Search
- Student Support Services
- Educational Opportunity Centers
- Training Program for Federal TRIO Programs Staff
- Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement
- Upward Bound Math/Science Program
- Veterans Upward Bound
On August 21, 2015, the Department of Education will honor TRIO’s 50 Year Anniversary by hosting a symposium entitled, Celebrating 50 Years of Promoting Excellence by Providing Hope and Opportunity for Success. The event will be available via livestream by clicking here. The program will run from 9am – 12pm, EDT.
At Transform Consulting Group, we understand that an educated workforce creates a strong economy. Transform Consulting Group has developed a college and career readiness toolkit, LAUNCH, for organizations that seek to improve high school graduation rates and post-secondary enrollment and completion rates for students. Contact us today to learn more!
