SAVANNAH, Ga. – In a significant boost to its educational initiatives, Georgia Southern University (GSU) has secured nearly $3 million in federal funding. This financial support comes as part of a renewed TRIO grant aimed at enhancing the university’s Sponsored Student Programs.

The TRIO program, a cornerstone of GSU’s commitment to supporting students, has been renewed for another five years, courtesy of the United States Department of Education. This renewal not only sustains existing efforts but also paves the way for the introduction of new programs and resources.

Targeted specifically at first-generation college students, those from low-income backgrounds, and students with disabilities, this federal grant will benefit over 9,000 students across all GSU campuses. Dominique Quarles, Associate Vice President for OELDE, highlighted the broad reach of the program, emphasizing its potential to make a substantial impact on the student population.

“The services provided include academic tutoring, guidance in course selection, and even some financial assistance,” Quarles explained. “These resources are designed to help students navigate their undergraduate experience and explore potential career paths.”

Quarles expressed that this influx of federal funds offers much-needed relief and support, reinforcing the university’s mission to ensure that all students have the tools necessary for success.

“We receive these grants because whether the government is open or not, students already have these needs,” Quarles said. “We’re just glad to be able to continue to provide for those needs this time.”

GSU has recently added a program for students who are in need of childcare services. The Armstong, Huntsville and Liberty Campuses have toys and other items so kids can play with while their parent can continue to receive their education.

“We were fortunate enough to be able to designate a location where we have a lot of child friendly items for students on campus,” Quarles said. “So that’s all in our portfolio Sponsor Student Programs and all of these are sponsored by the Department of Education.”

Quarles said he knows first had just how important TRIO programs can be when ensuring student success.

“I’m a product of federal trio programs,” Quarles said. “I graduated from Georgia Southern, so I think that these programs and I know that these programs work. I think that our students and our alumni are proof of that every single day. “

This grant is a part of a five-year program and at the end of the fifth year they hope to apply again.