Eastern Oregon University announced on Mar. 16 that it is expanding its TRIO Student Support Services program and encouraging eligible students to apply.
The expansion comes after the university received a $1.09 million, five-year federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The TRIO Student Support Services program offers individualized academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, and financial aid guidance to help students persist in their studies and graduate.
The program is designed to serve first-generation college students, students from low-income families, and students with disabilities. Many EOU students come from rural communities and are the first in their families to attend college. The TRIO program aims to help these students stay enrolled, overcome academic challenges, and reach graduation.
“I believe in access, and this program provides access to students who might not otherwise receive this level of support,” said Sam McCumber, student retention & advising coordinator. “TRIO serves students who are economically disadvantaged, first-generation, or students with disabilities. We have that population here, and we are committed to helping them succeed.”
Through structured check-ins, academic planning, and personalized support, TRIO helps participants navigate higher education. Students meet regularly with advisors, receive tutoring services, and connect with peer mentors for both academic and financial guidance.
Quirah Elechuus, a junior from Palau and a first-generation college student at EOU, said the program provides consistent guidance: “It helps with tutoring, peer mentoring, and financial aid,” Elechuus said. “We have three appointments each term, and they’ve been very helpful. It’s free resources for you to succeed. All they want is for you to succeed.”
Adam Smith, a junior from Pendleton who participated in TRIO while attending community college before transferring to EOU, credited the program with helping him make the transition: “It really helped me in community college,” Smith said. “They helped me figure out where to transfer and what steps to take. It’s always a good idea to have somebody helping any way they can.”
University leaders say renewed federal funding will strengthen these strategies over the next five years by allowing more one-on-one support for additional students.
TRIO Student Support Services is part of the Federal TRIO Programs aimed at supporting individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds through grants administered by institutions like EOU.
“Students do not have to navigate college alone,” McCumber said. “If you think you might be eligible, reach out and apply. TRIO is here to support your goals from your first term through graduation.”
