EOU receives Federal TRIO grant to support student success

EOU receives Federal TRIO grant to support student success

LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon University (EOU) has received a $1.09 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support student success through its TRIO Student Support Services program. The five-year award will expand services designed to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds persist in college and graduate on time.

The grant will allow EOU to enhance tutoring, academic advising, mentoring, and financial education for students who face barriers to earning a college degree.

TRIO Student Support Services is part of the federal TRIO programs, which primarily serve first-generation college students, students from low-income families, and students with disabilities.

“The TRIO Student Support Services grant is a major step forward for Eastern Oregon University and the students we serve,” said Kelly Ryan, Ph.D., president of EOU. “Many students—especially those from rural communities—are less likely to attend and complete college without targeted support. These resources strengthen our mission to create clear pathways for all students to achieve a university education.”

Nationally, approximately 870,000 first-generation and low-income students were served by more than 3,400 TRIO programs in 2025. In Oregon, TRIO programs at public institutions and community colleges served more than 4,800 college students during the 2023–24 academic year.

“TRIO helps students persist and graduate across the country,” said Bennie Moses-Mesubed, associate vice president for strategic equity services. “With this funding, we can expand proven strategies and support more students at EOU.”

Students who believe they may qualify for TRIO Student Support Services are encouraged to apply. To learn more or submit an application, visit www.eou.edu/trio or email trio@eou.edu.