Trio student support services

Dakota Wesleyan University received a $304,621 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education under the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program (CFDA 84.042), awarded September 1, 2025, with completion targeted for August 31, 2026. The grant funds comprehensive supportive services designed to enhance academic outcomes and student retention for disadvantaged college students, including low-income, first-generation, and students with disabilities enrolled at the institution in Mitchell, South Dakota.

Under this award, Dakota Wesleyan University delivers direct support services to eligible students that enhance their academic potential, financial literacy, and overall success in completing their postsecondary education programs. The SSS Program emphasizes improving retention and graduation rates while facilitating transfer pathways from two-year to four-year institutions. As a one-year project grant within the five-year TRIO program framework, this award represents continuation or new funding for student support services that address barriers to educational completion and promote degree attainment among disadvantaged student populations.