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Just about any student or alumnus of 91ԭ�� will tell you how supported they felt during their academic journey. Now, that commitment to student success is being strengthened even further.

The U.S. Department of Education’s TRIO Student Support Services program has awarded GGC a five-year, $1.36 million grant to expand and enhance its student support initiatives.

“This grant recognizes GGC’s commitment to the success of our students,” said Dr. Justin Jernigan, interim associate provost for academic programs and associate professor of linguistics. “We’ve taken the first steps to hire a director and support staff who will be dedicated to recruiting students for the program.”

In addition to funding staff positions, the TRIO grant will support students who are financially disadvantaged, are served by Disability Services or are the first in their family to attend college.

“We will have the extra support and systems in place so that these students succeed academically despite challenges they may face,” said Jernigan. “Our goal is for them to be successful throughout their studies and ultimately graduate.”

One initiative designed to help students persist and thrive is Grizzly Peers for Success, a peer mentorship program that connects successful upper-level students with first-year students.

“This program connects students who have already navigated college successfully with those who are just beginning their journey,” said Jernigan.

For the students served by TRIO, the grant represents more than funding.

“It means guidance, encouragement and a community that believes in their potential,” said Jernigan. “Through expanded support services and peer connections, GGC is creating pathways for students to overcome barriers, stay on track and reach graduation with confidence.”