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�鶹��Ƶ’s University has once again earned national recognition for its commitment to student success. The institution was recently awarded a renewed��$1.3 million TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) federal grant, ensuring that the University can continue providing transformative support to first-generation, low-income students and students with disabilities through 2030.

This five-year renewal from the U.S. Department of Education reflects both the strength of the University’s existing program and its demonstrated impact on student retention, academic achievement, and graduation outcomes. TRIO SSS is part of a broader family of federal programs that deliver academic, personal, and financial guidance to students who face barriers in their pursuit of higher education. At �鶹��Ƶ’s, these services include advising, financial literacy resources, graduate school preparation, and holistic personal support.

For Sarah Smyth, M.Ed., CSW, Director of TRIO Student Support Services, the grant renewal is more than a professional milestone—it is personal. Smyth is a first-generation college graduate and an alumna of New Jersey’s Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF), a program similar in mission to TRIO.

“We are thrilled to receive this renewed funding, which allows us to continue serving our scholars and expanding the opportunities available to them,” Smyth said. “This work is deeply meaningful to me. My mission has always been to pave the way for future generations and ensure that students feel supported as they blaze their own trails personally and professionally.”

Ms. Smyth, who has led the program for the past three years, said watching students grow has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. “Our students show tremendous resilience and determination. Being able to nurture a community where they are encouraged, challenged, and empowered is something I am grateful for every day.”

The renewal also affirms the dedication of the staff who work closely with TRIO scholars, including Assistant Director Katelyn Joyce, a double alumna of �鶹��Ƶ’s University.

“I feel incredibly blessed and deeply grateful for the renewal of our five-year, $1.3 million TRIO SSS federal grant,” Ms. Joyce shared. “This support ensures that we can continue pouring into our students—providing the holistic services, resources, and guidance they need to reach their ultimate goal of graduating with a degree.”

Ms.��Joyce emphasized that her passion for this work is rooted in watching students evolve. “Seeing students push themselves, work hard, and celebrate their victories—whether a small breakthrough or a major accomplishment—truly makes my day. The fact that I get to continue doing this work, in the community that shaped me, fills me with joy and purpose.”

The program’s impact resonates deeply with students as well.

Calvin Rosa ’28, a Business Management major with minors in Finance and Political Science, described TRIO SSS as a turning point in his academic and personal journey. Working full-time while juggling a demanding course load left him overwhelmed and uncertain.

“TRIO SSS offered me something invaluable—a second chance not just in my academic career, but in stabilizing my life,” he shared.

Through one-on-one advising, structured support, and workshops focused on academic success and financial stability, Calvin found the confidence and balance he had been missing. “TRIO is much more than a service; it’s a supportive community. Thanks to the unwavering commitment of the TRIO staff, I am no longer just surviving. I am a thriving student leader with a clear path to graduation.”

Another TRIO scholar, Mario Gomez, a Philosophy major and peer mentor, echoed those sentiments. When he first arrived at �鶹��Ƶ’s, he described himself as quiet and unsure of his place. It was TRIO that helped him step into his confidence.

“TRIO changed me into a better person. They helped me build confidence, develop leadership skills, and pushed me to grow in ways I never expected,” Mario said. He credited the encouragement of Ms. Smyth and Ms.��Joyce for helping him realize his potential. “Like many others, I am truly grateful for TRIO.”

With federal support secured for another five years, �鶹��Ƶ’s University is poised to deepen its commitment to student success. The renewed TRIO SSS grant will allow the University to strengthen academic development, expand retention initiatives, and enhance the holistic resources available to students who need them most.

For the TRIO SSS staff and scholars, this renewal marks not only a continuation of essential services but also an affirmation of the mission that guides their work: ensuring every student has the tools, confidence, and community they need to succeed.