Project Information:

Special Support Services Programs, also known as TRIO Programs, were initiated in the 1960's to expand educational opportunities. Created by acts of the United States Congress, these programs serve students who might otherwise be denied access to post-secondary education. There are six types of TRIO Programs in operation across the United States: Upward Bound, Talent Search, Student Support Services, Education Opportunity Centers, Ronald McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, and Upward Bound Math/Science.

Student Support Services (SSS) Programs were authorized in 1968 by the Higher Education Act Amendments. SSS is committed to making higher education available to college students with academic need who are low income, first generation (neither parent has a bachelors degree), or disabled. SSS offers a broad range of opportunities and services to promote the academic success of eligible college students. Studies have found that students who receive comprehensive services from SSS Programs are more than twice as likely to stay in school as students who are not served.