What are WSU Federal TRIO programs?

The Federal TRIO Programs at Wayne State University reflect our nation's commitment to providing an educational opportunity for all Americans regardless of race, ethnic background, or economic circumstance. In support of this commitment, the U.S. Congress and the State of Michigan established a series of programs to help low-income Americans enter college, graduate, and move on to participate completely in America's economic and social life. While student financial aid programs help students overcome financial barriers to higher education, TRIO and the State of Michigan's King Chavez Parks College Day Program help students overcome class, social and cultural barriers to higher education.  

History of WSU Federal TRIO Programs

"TRIO" began with the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, which authorized 18 pilot Upward Bound Programs in 1965. The Higher Education Act of 1965 authorized the Educational Talent Search Program. In 1968, the term "TRIO" was applied to encompass Upward Bound, Educational Talent Search, and the newly authorized Student Support Services Programs.

The Wayne State University Upward Bound and Higher Education Opportunities Committee-Educational Talent Search Programs began educating students in 1966. They were followed by the Student Support Services Program (also known as Project 350) in 1968. The department has experienced steady growth over the past 40 years including the Veterans' Educational Opportunity Program (1972) Educational Opportunity Center (1982), King-Chavez-Parks College Day Program (1986), McNair Scholars Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program (2003) and the Child Care Means Parents in School Program (2005).

Vision Statement

Federal TRIO Programs will provide academic assistance and support services to promising youth, adult learners, and Wayne State University students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education due to economic deprivation, poor academic preparation, or first-generation college status.

Mission Statement

The mission of WSU Federal TRIO Programs is to form partnerships with students that successfully improve student learning and engagement. These learning experiences produce outcomes that empower TRIO students to overcome academic, class, social, and cultural barriers to success in higher education.