Student Support Services

Teacher Support Services

McNair Scholars Program

What is TRIO?

Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) are Federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to college.

History

In support of the commitment to education in America, Congress established a series of programs to help low-income Americans enter college, graduate, and move on to participate more fully in America’s economic and social life. These programs are funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and are referred to as the TRIO Programs (initially just three programs).

While student financial aid programs help students overcome financial barriers to higher education, TRIO programs help students overcome class, social, and cultural barriers to higher education.

The first TRIO program at Sam Houston State University was established in 2001. There currently are three TRIO programs at SHSU serving the unique educational needs of special populations students. Participants must qualify according to guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education.

Want to know more about SHSU TRIO Programs? Contact our offices or drop by and talk to us.