Franklin College Awarded Federal Trio Grant to Support At-Risk Students
Franklin College has been awarded a highly competitive federal TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
The $1.36 million grant will support a comprehensive program aimed at increasing retention, academic performance and graduation rates among first-generation students, students from low-income backgrounds, and students with disabilities. The program will be 100% funded by the grant.
“This grant allows us to more effectively support students who face specific barriers to success in higher education,” said President Kerry N. Prather. “Through this program, Franklin College will provide individualized academic coaching, career development, financial literacy and mentoring to help students succeed through graduation.”
Andrew Jones, Ed.D., vice president for student development and dean of students, noted, “Our goal is to provide much more than just academic support — we aim to create a culture of care and belonging for students who may be navigating the college experience without a roadmap. By guiding them from their first day with tailored advising, mentoring and access to career-building opportunities like internships and undergraduate research, we are preparing them not only to persist in college but to thrive.”
The College intends to serve 140 students annually through a personalized, student-centered service model.
Students will begin their journey in the program with a comprehensive orientation and will participate in structured first- and second-year experience programs. They will work closely with academic coaches to develop individualized success plans and meet regularly for guidance and progress monitoring. Participants will also engage in workshops focused on study skills, financial literacy, mental health and resilience, and career exploration.
In their junior and senior years, students will receive support identifying and completing internships and undergraduate research opportunities. In addition, the program will help them prepare for post-graduate success through graduate school planning and career readiness activities.
Students interested in joining the program must complete an application and meet eligibility criteria. Once selected, they will sign a participation agreement and benefit from early course registration, targeted academic support, and connections to campus and community resources.
The TRIO SSS program at Franklin College builds on the institution’s long-standing commitment to inclusive excellence and student success.