NORFOLK, Neb. – A crucial program at Northeast Community College faces an uncertain future, potentially impacting local employment, education, and community involvement. The college is grappling with delayed funding for TRIO, a national initiative designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Northeast Community College President Dr. Leah Barrett expressed concerns about the program's future. "We did receive word on July 3rd that our grant was renewed," Barrett stated, "and we'll continue to be working with our elected officials because that's just a one-year grant that is part of a five-year grant, but that's just one year we will receive as of right now. So, Congress will meet in early September to talk about the continuation of those programs."

TRIO programs serve students who are first-generation, low-income, or have disabilities. Participants benefit from comprehensive support services that contribute to higher graduation rates nationwide. The program requires students to meet with faculty a minimum of three times per semester, where a personalized student success plan is developed.

"It's going to involve not just academics," said TRIO Success Program Director Josh Becker. "We're going to be talking about their personal life, their professional life, and maybe even their current work life. We also talk about what the financial implications are going to be, to go with that to ensure our transfer credits are going to be working for whatever their program is." Becker added that the program includes tours and one-on-one meetings with faculty or advisors in their field of study.

TRIO also offers career-focused workshops in partnership with local businesses. Calmwater Financial Group in Norfolk provides free certified financial planning and financial literacy training to students. The program also brings in other local businesses and professionals to share insights on starting and managing a small business.

In 2024, the Adult Education program served 931 students from 27 different countries and 20-county service areas in and around Norfolk, with more than 30 languages spoken among the participants.

"Our goal is to help students find a skill," said Director of Adult Education Emily Duncan. "To get them a career, get them the education needed in order to be economic self-sufficient in their lives, but also get them out of their poverty or low incomes where they currently are so they can advance the different life skills."

The uncertainty surrounding TRIO's funding has raised concerns about the potential impact on students and the broader community. School officials say Congress is expected to meet in September to discuss the continuation of these programs.

President Barrett stated, "We believe that the rest of the congressional delegation in Nebraska is supportive because it is a program that really supports students, especially from rural areas, in coming to college and being successful.”