TRIO Holds Annual Scholars Reception

by Sarah Smith

Senatobia, MS (04/26/2023) — Northwest Mississippi Community College's TRIO program had their annual Scholars Reception on April 25 at the Haraway Center to honor students who have participated in the TRIO program and have found success.

TRIO Student Support Services is a federally-funded program to help improve student retention, graduation rates, financial literacy, and overall academic success. TRIO-SSS offers free academic and engagement activities for qualified students.

"The goal of TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants and facilitate their transfer to four-year institutions," said Dr. LaQuita Smith-Parker, director of student support services and MAEOPP treasurer.

Dr. Smith-Parker said this event is to honor the 2023 TRIO scholars, including Jaylin Cruthirds of Bruce, Jaime Fairlee of Sumner, Banesia Garth of West Point, Alesa Hudson of Jackson, Porsha Kennedy of Horn Lake, Khaliya Lacy of Greenwood, Dakoyta Lesure of New Albany, Casiah Pegues of Senatobia, Stedmon D. Smith of Senatobia, A'Keston Suggs of Oakland, Ari'Ona Taylor of Tunica, Barbre'Annia Connor of Batesville, and Lindsay Weeks of Vaiden.

The requirements for being eligible for this program include that students are U.S. citizens or a permanent resident seeking a degree transfer program and are one of the following: first generation college student, financial need as defined by U.S. Department of Education, or have a documented disability, whether physical or learning.

The services that are provided by SSS include tutoring, advising, counseling on financial aid programs and planning, assistance in completing FAFSA, transfer assistance, peer mentoring, workshops, grant aid, and learning laboratory.

For students interested in applying for TRIO support, pick up an application at the Student Support Services Office in the McLendon Center Union Building on the second floor in room 203. They are open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.