Trio student support services-program to enhance academic, cultural, personal, and professional development by increasing student retention, graduation, and transfer rates

Illinois Central College received a $391,072 Project Grant from the Office of Postsecondary Education (Department of Education) under the TRIO Student Support Services Program (CFDA 84.042), effective September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026. This award funds comprehensive supportive services designed to enhance academic outcomes and increase retention, graduation, and transfer rates for disadvantaged college students, including low-income, first-generation, and students with disabilities at the institution's East Peoria, Illinois campus.

The TRIO Student Support Services Program delivers direct academic and personal development services to eligible students to strengthen their potential for successfully completing postsecondary education and transferring from two-year to four-year institutions. Services typically include academic advising, cultural and professional development programming, financial literacy education, and retention support tailored to address barriers faced by underrepresented student populations. Illinois Central College's award supports the delivery of these integrated support services across its community college operations.