Spalding University is Proud to Announce the Award of its First-ever TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Grant from the U.S. Department of Education
This competitive grant will provide over $1.3 million, or $272,364 per year, over five years to support the academic success, retention, and graduation of students who are first-generation, low-income, or have disabilities. TRIO SSS funding provides 100% of the funds for this new program.
The TRIO SSS program will serve 140 eligible students annually, allowing Spalding to build on the work of the existing Student and Academic Success team. The funding will expand student success services such as academic advising, tutoring, financial literacy education, career and graduate school preparation, and holistic support. The program directly supports Spalding’s mission to foster a compassionate and inclusive learning environment and to meet the needs of the times through education and service.
“This investment affirms the strength of our mission and the dedication of our faculty and staff to walk alongside students on their educational journeys,” said Dr. Anne Kenworthy, President of Spalding University. “This TRIO SSS grant represents a significant milestone in Spalding’s history, and I congratulate the Student and Academic Success team on this meaningful achievement.”
“This is a transformative opportunity for Spalding University, as this funding allows us to expand our work by providing enhanced support to our students who face barriers to higher education,” said Dr. Katherine Walker-Payne, Dean of Student and Academic Success. “Through intentional and targeted programs, we will support so many of our wonderful students as they learn, grow, thrive, and meet their personal and academic goals.”
The TRIO SSS grant is part of a federally funded initiative designed to improve college persistence and graduation rates among underserved student populations. Spalding’s selection reflects its strong institutional commitment to student success and its readiness to implement a high-impact support model.
The program will officially launch in the Fall of 2025, with student recruitment and services beginning immediately. Spalding University looks forward to the positive impact this initiative will have on its campus and community.