Purdue University Northwest has received $1.8 million in federal funding to support first-generation and low-income students, and students with disabilities.
The funding bolsters the university’s TRIO Student Support Services program. The program assists eligible PNW students with services that support their college journeys through graduation and preparation for entering the workforce or graduate school. Students receive one-to-one mentorship through tutoring, financial assistance and planning, counseling and career exploration. Eligible students also have group learning and professional development opportunities at conferences and other universities around the country.
“This grant allows Purdue University Northwest to deepen our commitment to ensuring that all students—regardless of background—can thrive academically and personally,” said Jorge Lopez, program director, in a press release. “Student Support Services helps level the playing field and equips our students with the tools and confidence to graduate and lead.”
About 200 PNW students are served through the TRIO Student Support Services program. The funding renewal for the program will help serve eligible students across the next five years.
PNW is designated as a FirstGen Forward Network Leader. The university’s other TRIO programs, such as Educational Talent Search, the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program and Upward Bound, provide support systems and belonging for underprivileged students from middle school through graduate school.
