Mercer Receives $1.1 Million U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support Students at Regional Academic Centers

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MACON – Mercer University has received a $1.1 million U.S. Department of Education Student Support Services (SSS) grant to improve retention, graduation and financial literacy among non-traditional students.

The five-year grant, which will provide $220,000 in funds each year, will benefit the University’s Regional Academic Centers (RACs) in Douglas and Henry counties and on the Macon campus.

This funding will underwrite scholarships for 140 low-income, first-generation and/or disabled students attending Mercer, as well as fund an office and staffing of a director, two counselors, an administrative assistant, tutors and student workers.

“This new SSS program is an excellent opportunity to provide additional and more individualized services to the many non-traditional students at the University,” said Dr. Michelle A. Currie, director of Mercer’s Federal TRIO Programs.

“Services will be offered during times that work with students’ professional schedules. In addition, the grant aid offered through SSS can provide several non-traditional students with valuable scholarships to assist with tuition. We are looking forward to playing our part in positively impacting Mercer student retention and graduation.”

SSS grants are awarded to higher education institutions to provide opportunities for academic development, assist students with basic college requirements, and to motivate students toward the successful completion of postsecondary education.

SSS is one of eight TRIO programs, federal outreach and student services initiatives designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.

For more information, visit trio.mercer.edu.