Asheville, North Carolina, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The University of North Carolina Asheville has been awarded a $1.3 million TRIO grant from the federal Department of Education to support first-generation, low-income students, and students with disabilities. This funding, distributed over five years, aims to establish a TRIO Student Support Services Program that will provide comprehensive resources and guidance to help these students complete their degrees. The program is set to launch in Spring 2026, with 140 students being enrolled each semester.
Asheville, North Carolina – The University of North Carolina Asheville has been awarded over $1 million from the federal Department of Education through a TRIO grant totaling $1.3 million to support first-generation, low-income students, and students with disabilities. This significant funding marks the first of its kind for UNC Asheville, which will utilize the funds to help reduce the risk of students not completing their degrees.
The $1.3 million grant will be disbursed over five years to establish a TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program. The program is designed to provide holistic and targeted support aimed at helping eligible students navigate their educational journey more effectively. A dedicated program director and an academic success coach will be hired to run the TRIO SSS, ensuring that students receive the guidance and resources they need to succeed.
The TRIO SSS Program is slated to begin in the spring 2026 semester, with plans to enroll 140 students each semester. Eligible students will need to apply for the program when applications open in November 2025. A waitlist will be established for those who are not initially selected to participate in the program, ensuring that all interested students have opportunities for support.
Program Goals and Initiatives
The main goal of the TRIO SSS Program is to promote degree completion among students who are first-generation, low-income, or have disabilities. The program will focus on offering comprehensive support services which can include academic advising, tutoring, mentorship, and various workshops designed to help students enhance their college experience.
Significance of the TRIO Grant
This TRIO grant represents a vital investment in expanding educational opportunities for underserved populations within the community. By targeting first-generation and low-income students, UNC Asheville’s initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and equal access to higher education.
Background on TRIO Programs
The TRIO programs are federally funded initiatives aimed at helping individuals overcome barriers to higher education. Established in the 1960s, TRIO programs include Student Support Services, which specifically seeks to assist students from low-income backgrounds or who are the first in their families to attend college. The focus has always been on building student success and retention through comprehensive support services.
More broadly, UNC Asheville continues to advocate for educational equity, recognizing that many students face significant challenges along their academic paths. The establishment of this TRIO SSS Program aligns with university efforts to foster an inclusive learning environment, where every student has the chance to succeed.
Program Implementation Timeline
- Grant Award: $1.3 million from the Department of Education
- Program Start Date: Spring 2026
- Application Opening: November 2025
- Total Enrollment: 140 students each semester
Conclusion
The implementation of the TRIO Student Support Services Program at UNC Asheville represents a pivotal step forward in providing critical support to first-generation, low-income students, and those with disabilities, contributing to higher retention and graduation rates within these key demographics.
FAQ
What is the total amount of the TRIO grant awarded to UNC Asheville?
The TRIO grant totals $1.3 million.
Which student groups will the TRIO grant assist?
The grant aims to assist first-generation, low-income students, and students with disabilities.
When is the TRIO Student Support Services Program expected to begin?
The TRIO SSS Program is scheduled to begin in the spring 2026 semester.
How many students will enroll in the program each semester?
The program will enroll 140 students each semester.
When will applications for the spring 2026 cohort open?
Applications for the spring 2026 cohort will open in November 2025.
What will the funds from the TRIO grant be used for?
The funds will provide “holistic and targeted support” to reduce the risk of students not completing their degrees.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Funding | $1.3 million |
| Duration | 5 years |
| Target Groups | First-generation, low-income students, students with disabilities |
| Program Start | Spring 2026 |
| Students Enrolled per Semester | 140 students |
| Application Opening | November 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- WLOS News
- North State Journal
- Tuscaloosa News
- Wikipedia: TRIO Programs
- Google Search: Student Support Services program
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
