​​ASU’s TRIO Program Receives $2,022,065 Grant Renewal from U.S. Dept. of Education

By Hazel Scott/ASU

Alabama State University received a federal grant of $404, 413 for a five-year period totaling $2,022,065 from the U.S. Department of Education for the continuation of the TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program.

The ETS program encourages youth from disadvantaged backgrounds to complete high school and enroll in a post-secondary educational institution of their choice.

ASU’s Talent Search program services 729 eligible participants in four counties: Montgomery, Elmore, Lowndes and Autauga counties.

“The Talent Search program at ASU has had the privilege of serving students in the River Region for approximately 30 years, and we look forward to continuing to provide services, especially in this critical time and the effects of Covid-19. Students need additional support to advance academically," said  Dr. Acquanetta M. Pinkard, director of ASU TRIO program.  “These funds will allow us to continue to make an impact and forge lasting relationships in the community."

 The ETS program identifies and recruits middle and high school students for the program in collaboration with school counselors and teachers.

 “Along with other eligibility criteria, potential students should have an interest in pursuing a post-secondary education,” she said.  “The program consists of not only middle and high school students but also General Education Development (GED) and dropout participants.”   

Services provided by Talent Search include academic, career and financial counseling, and assistance with the postsecondary application process.