ASU’s TRIO Program Receives Renewal of $ 2,022,065 US Department of Education Grant

By Hazel Scott / ASU

Alabama State University received a five-year federal grant of $ 404,413 totaling $ 2,022,065 from the US Department of Education for the continuation of the TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program.

The ETS program encourages young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to complete high school and enroll in a post-secondary institution of their choice.

ASU’s Talent Search program serves 729 eligible participants in four counties: Montgomery, Elmore, Lowndes and Autauga counties.

“The ASU Talent Search Program has had the privilege of serving students in the River area for approximately 30 years, and we look forward to continuing to provide services, especially during this critical time and the effects of Covid. -19. Students need extra support to progress in their studies, ”said Dr Acquanetta M. Pinkard, director of the ASU TRIO program. “These funds will allow us to continue to have an impact and forge lasting relationships in the community.

The ETS program identifies and recruits middle and high school students for the program in collaboration with school counselors and teachers.

“In addition to other eligibility criteria, potential students should have an interest in pursuing post-secondary education,” she said. “The program includes not only middle and high school students, but also participants in the development of general education (GED) and dropouts.

The services provided by Talent Search include academic, professional and financial advice, as well as assistance with the post-secondary education application process.