Student support services

The Department of Education Office of Postsecondary Education awarded $348,333 to the Board of Trustees of Southern Illinois University on September 1, 2026, under the TRIO Student Support Services program (CFDA 84.042) to provide supportive services enhancing postsecondary completion and transfer rates for disadvantaged students. The award funds services designed to increase retention and graduation rates among low-income college students, first-generation college students, college students with disabilities, students with limited English proficiency, students from historically underrepresented groups, homeless students, students in or aging out of foster care, and other disconnected students. The program also aims to improve financial and economic literacy. Performance occurs in Carbondale, Illinois, with a period of performance from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027. This is a one-year continuation award; the underlying grant program operates on a five-year cycle with annual continuation awards subject to fund availability and demonstrated progress toward project objectives.