MONMOUTH, ILLINOIS (October 2, 2025) — Monmouth College has been awarded a highly competitive TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant from the US Department of Education, totaling $1.3 million over five years. This funding will allow Monmouth to expand its commitment to supporting students who are first-generation, low-income, or have disabilities as they work toward earning their Bachelor's degree.
The TRIO SSS program is a federally-funded initiative designed to help students overcome social, academic, class, and cultural barriers in higher education. At Monmouth, the program will serve approximately 140 students annually, helping them stay in school, earn their degree, and build successful careers and lives.
"The Student Support Services grant directly supports Monmouth's mission to empower students to realize their full potential and succeed in college and beyond," said Monmouth President Patricia Draves.
"With 67% of our students meeting the eligibility criteria for SSS, this funding will have a transformative impact on persistence, retention,and graduation rates."
TRIO SSS participants at Monmouth will benefit from:
- Personalized academic advising and tutoring;
- Career exploration, graduate school preparation and internship support; and
- Cultural and leadership development opportunities.
"We are thrilled for our students," said Michelle Merritt, vice president and dean for student success. "This grant deepens our commitment to ensuring that all students — regardless of background — are equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed academically and personally."
The TRIO SSS program aligns with Monmouth's long-standing commitment to educational access since 1853. Today, nearly three-quarters of Monmouth students receive need-based aid, with 43% being the first in their families to attend college.
This grant ensures that more Monmouth students will not only reach graduation but also leave fully prepared to pursue meaningful careers and lives of purpose.
