Fresno Pacific University awarded $1.3 million TRIO grant

Fresno Pacific University has been awarded more than $1.3 million through a federal TRIO - Student Support Services grant, allowing the university to strengthen its support of first-generation, low-income students and students with a registered disability.

The grant will be distributed to FPU over the next five years at $272,364 per year and will provide support to up to 140 students in both the traditional undergraduate and degree completion programs. To participate in the TRIO program, students will need to meet the eligibility requirements of having completed fewer than 60 units, being a first-generation college student, qualifying as low-income and/or having a registered disability with FPU's DAE office.

The funds will allow FPU to have more peer tutors and peer mentors available for TRIO students. The program will also offer students culturally enriching events, trips to graduate schools, scholarships, financial aid, mental health support and more. The grant also covers the hiring of staff for this program.

Kerry Sue Brown, Ph.D., chaired the grant committee, which also included Angie Turner and Kizzy Lopez, Ed.D. Work on this grant began in May 2024, with a submission date of July 2024. FPU was then notified of being awarded the grant in September 2025.

Sarah Micu, director of student support services, is serving as program director. "The grant creates the opportunity for FPU to do more of what it already is doing without strain on institutional funds," Micu said. "I'm a TRIO alumna and participated in the TRIO - Upward Bound Math and Science program throughout high school. I'm excited TRIO is finally at FPU and I get to be a part of it."

The goal is to continually reapply for or renew the Student Support Services program grant, as well as apply to other TRIO grants in order to extend support to more students.

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