On August 6, Ozarka College received notification that the current TRIO Student Support Services federal grant was funded for an additional five years, a total grant award of $1,657,170 for the program. Through this federally funded grant program, Ozarka College offers services for many of its students. TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) provides academic, financial and personal support to eligible students at Ozarka College to assist them with their educational endeavors.
“I am excited that the TRIO program has been awarded funding and credit the TRIO staff for their hard work and diligence in ensuring its success,” said Jason Lawrence, Vice President of Student Services.
The services offered by Ozarka’s SSS program include: academic advising; financial or supportive counseling referrals; information on chosen educational major and career choices; aptitude and interest inventories; transfer scholarship information; tours of four-year colleges and universities; help with admissions, financial aid and transfer process at other institutions; individual and group peer tutoring; informational workshops; and cultural events and trips.
Eligibility for SSS is established through the U.S. Department of Education. Students applying for the program must meet one of the following qualifications: meet low income guidelines, first-generation college student, or an individual with a documented disability. Program participants must be a U.S. citizen or meet residency requirements and pursing an associate’s degree or working toward a four-year degree.
Ozarka College currently has four staff members in the SSS Department; Tracy Cone, Director; Mandy Brooks, Academic Services Coordinator; Bryan Jeffery, Transfer Coordinator; and Shelia Titus, Administrative Specialist III.
