OSU receives $ 1.4 million to help first-generation low-income students access higher education
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Media Contact: Mack Burke | Editorial coordinator | 8176802176 | [email protected]
The US Department of Education has announced that the Oklahoma State University Federal Talent Search Grant will be repaid for five years in the amount of $ 1.4 million. This grant helps low-income, first-generation students graduate from high school and find their way to college.
Over the past five years, the OSU Talent Search project has helped over 200 students prepare for, apply for, and succeed in college. Since its inception at OSU, the project has maintained a high school graduation rate of 98% over four years.
A federal TRIO program, Talent Search identifies middle and high school students and provides them with guidance as well as information on college admission requirements, scholarships, and various student financial aid programs to help them better understand their opportunities and educational options. At least two-thirds of the students in the Talent Search program come from low-income economic backgrounds and families where neither parent has a bachelor’s degree.
The search for talent began in 1965 as part of President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. This was the second of eight federal “TRIO” programs authorized by the Higher Education Act to help students succeed in their baccalaureate studies. He recognizes that students whose parents do not have a college degree often find it more difficult to navigate the complex decisions that college demands. The program helps break down the barriers that prevent students from achieving academic success.
“To be able to continue our efforts to offer workshops and sessions on topics such as career exploration, academic counseling (college preparation vs. technical preparation), goal setting, critical thinking and Decision-making skills, study skills, counseling for passing tests and college admissions and financial aid are extremely exciting, ”said Dr. Clyde C. Wilson Jr., assistant vice president for institutional diversity. This grant provides us with additional resources to carry out the university’s land grant mission.
“This $ 1.4 million federal grant program is a prime example of an effective partnership between OSU and the U.S. Department of Education to prepare underrepresented students across the state for academic, professional success. and personal. We are proud to have Talent Search, as well as three additional TRIO programs, hosted within the Institutional Diversity Division, ”said Dr. Jason F. Kirksey, Vice President of Institutional Diversity and Director of Diversity at OSU.
