ASU Helps Local Students Graduate High School and Prepare for College

Alabama State University will help 729 students at 10 schools in Montgomery, Lowndes and Elmore Counties graduate from high school and prepare for a college education thanks to a $349,000 Educational Talent Search (TRIO) grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

The grant will run over five years, starting Sept. 1, and ending Aug. 31, 2021.

Talent Search, one of eight programs collectively known as the federal TRIO programs, assists students confronting tough challenges to finish high school and attend a post secondary institution. Activities and services are specially designed for low-income and first-generation college students as well as those with disabilities and limited English-language proficiency.

“Talent Search is a win-win program for our students,” said Acquanetta M. Pinkard, director of ASU TRIO Program.  “Students in economically challenged backgrounds might lack the services early in the process that helps them stay on track. This program is in keeping with ASU’s goal of creating access opportunities for all qualified students in pursuit of a higher education.”

Pinkard said without key resources, mentors, tutors and access to challenging classes, students from low-income homes are significantly less likely to find the path to college and more likely to struggle if they get there.