University of maine at Farmington Awarded $1.76 Million TRIO Grant
FARMINGTON, ME (August 18, 2025)-The University of maine at Farmington (UMF) will receive $1.76 million over five years from the U.S. department of Education to enhance its TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) programme.This substantial federal grant aims to significantly improve college retention and graduation rates among students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Empowering Students Through TRIO SSS
the annual award of $352,530 will directly support low-income students, first-generation college attendees, and students with disabilities. These funds will provide crucial resources, including academic tutoring, financial aid assistance, scholarship guidance, career exploration opportunities, and personalized counseling and mentoring services.
Did You Know?
The Federal TRIO Programs were established as part of the Economic Prospect Act of 1964, reflecting a long-standing commitment to expanding educational access.
U.S. Senator Susan Collins, co-chair of the Congressional TRIO Caucus, announced the competitive awards in July, highlighting the programS proven impact on student success. The TRIO SSS program is designed to address systemic barriers that frequently enough hinder students from underrepresented groups from completing their degrees.
UMF’s Johnson Scholars Program: A Hub for Support
At UMF, the TRIO SSS program is administered through the esteemed Johnson Scholars Program. This program currently serves 180 students annually, providing a comprehensive support system to help them navigate the challenges of higher education. The Johnson Scholars Program focuses on fostering academic skills, personal advancement, and clear pathways to future careers.
UMF’s Johnson Scholars Program is one of thirteen federally funded TRIO SSS programs operating across the state of Maine. This collaborative network ensures that a wide range of students benefit from these vital resources.
Demonstrated Success and Impact
The effectiveness of the UMF TRIO SSS program is evident in its impressive performance metrics. According to the program’s 2023-2024 annual review, 90% of participants either re-enrolled at UMF or graduated with a bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, 92% of students served by the program maintained good academic standing throughout the year.
Pro Tip:
Students seeking support should proactively engage with the Johnson Scholars Program to maximize the benefits offered.
“It has been my priviledge to work with some of the most hardworking, resilient students,” stated Ashlee Fecteau, Director of Johnson Scholars. “This program provides the skills and confidence they need to succeed, often when they doubt their ability to even complete college.”
TRIO SSS Program Key Statistics
| Metric | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Student Re-enrollment/Graduation Rate | 90% |
| students Maintaining Good Academic Standing | 92% |
| Total Grant Funding (5 years) | $1,762,650 |
| Annual Grant award | $352,530 |
What challenges do first-generation college students typically face, and how can universities better address these needs? How does access to programs like TRIO SSS impact long-term career trajectories?
For more details about the UMF TRIO Student Support Services program, visit the UMF Johnson Scholars Program website or contact Ashlee Fecteau at ashlee.fecteau@maine.edu or 207-778-7565.
About the University of Maine at Farmington
The University of Maine at farmington is a nationally recognized public liberal arts college. It is known for its strong programs in the creative arts, teacher preparation, health sciences, environmental studies, business, and public service. UMF provides a supportive learning environment that prepares students for successful careers and engaged citizenship.
The need for programs like TRIO SSS remains critical as the cost of higher education continues to rise and disparities in access persist. Research consistently demonstrates that targeted support services are essential for closing achievement gaps and promoting equitable outcomes for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Investing in these programs is not just a matter of social justice, but also a strategic imperative for building a skilled and diverse workforce.
U.S. Department of Education – TRIO Programs
Frequently Asked Questions about TRIO SSS
- What is the primary goal of the TRIO SSS program? To improve the college retention and graduation rates of students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Who is eligible for TRIO SSS services at UMF? Students who are low-income, first-generation college students, or students with disabilities.
- What types of support does the Johnson Scholars Program offer? Academic tutoring, financial aid assistance, career counseling, and personal mentoring.
- How effective is the UMF TRIO SSS program? 90% of participants either re-enroll or graduate, and 92% maintain good academic standing.
- Where can I find more information about TRIO programs nationally? Visit the U.S. Department of Education’s TRIO website.
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