TRIO
St. Scholastica’s two TRIO programs support educational access and success for our students. TRIO Student Support Services provides services to help students succeed in college and earn their undergraduate degrees. The TRIO McNair Scholars program connects students with research and graduate school opportunities.
TRIO Student Support Services
TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) has a long history of providing mentorship, programming and services to first-generation, disabled or income-eligible students that helps foster an inclusive and resilient community. We work with and empower each student as they navigate college and pursue their goal of earning a bachelor’s degree. Student Support Services is a 100% federally funded TRIO program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education ($338,973 annually).
How TRIO SSS Can Help You
Eligibility, Application and Services
Eligibility
You may be eligible if you are a U.S. Citizen with academic need and at least one of the following is true:
- Neither of your parents or guardians graduated from a four-year college
- You have documented financial need and meet the income guidelines
- You have a documented disability
Apply Now
There are 2 steps when applying online. Both steps must be completed before your application will be considered for the program.
Step 1: Personal Information Form
Student: Fill out the Personal Information Form to apply for TRIO SSS.
Step 2: Income Verification Form
Parent/Guardian of Dependent Student or Independent Student: Complete the Income Verification Form.
A parent or guardian will need to complete this step unless you are:
- 24 years old
- Married
- Serving active duty in military
- Foster care or ward of the state
Questions?
Email sss@css.edu or call 218-723-6594.
Services
SSS offers free services in the following four areas: academic support, career guidance, personal development, and financial literacy. The purpose of our services is to increase the number of SSS eligible students who graduate from college.
Contact Us
Matt Hoeschen
Director
Tower Hall, Room 2150C
218-723-6037
mhoeschen@css.edu
Book Appointment
Tiffany Snider, MSW, LICSW
Assistant Director
Tower Hall, Room 2149F
218-723-5909
tsnider@css.edu
Book Appointment
Ashleen Knutson
Academic Specialist
Tower Hall, Room 2150D
218-723-6208
aknutson1@css.edu
Book Appointment
TRIO McNair Scholars Program
The TRIO McNair Scholars program inspires and empowers the McNair student community to succeed in research, graduate study and advanced careers. The McNair student community specifically includes first generation students with financial need and underrepresented students of color enrolled at The College of St. Scholastica, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, Lake Superior College and the University of Minnesota Duluth.
Eligibility
Am I eligible to join the TRIO McNair Scholars program?
The TRIO McNair Scholars program provides educational access and success for income-eligible first generation students and underrepresented students of color. Federally-funded by the U.S. Department of Education, McNair participants must meet the following eligibility requirements.
- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident; and
- Enrolled in an institution of higher education with the intention of completing a Bachelor’s degree; and
- Be an income-eligible first-generation student*;
OR - Be a member of a group underrepresented in graduate education (African American, Native American, Pacific Islander, Alaska Native, or of Hispanic heritage).
Answer a few questions on this form to quickly determine your eligibility for the TRIO McNair Scholars program. If you have any questions or concerns about eligibility, please contact us at mcnair@css.edu.
STEM majors, sophomores and TRIO alumni are especially encouraged to apply! The McNair program serves students from The College of St. Scholastica, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, Lake Superior College and The University of Minnesota Duluth.
*Income eligibility based on this taxable income chart. First-generation student means neither natural/adoptive parent has completed a Bachelor’s degree.
Application Components
How do I apply?
Please review McNair eligibility information prior to applying.
Then follow these steps:
- Complete your applicant information
- Complete income documentation
- Complete your personal statement
- Submit an unofficial transcript to mcnair@css.edu
- Complete an interview with McNair staff
McNair applications are opened at the beginning of each academic year. Priority is given to complete applications submitted by October 15th although applications are accepted on a rolling basis. If you have any questions, concerns, or require accommodations, please email our office at mcnair@css.edu.
Activities as a Scholar
What will I learn?
The McNair program provides comprehensive learning and support designed to inspire and empower you to succeed in graduate study and an advanced career, including:
- Research with a faculty mentor.
- Scholarly activities such as presenting your research.
- Seminars and other educational activities.
- One-on-one advising.
In addition, participants have access to resources such as:
- Summer research stipends.
- Summer housing.
- Travel funds.
- GRE test prep materials.
- Application fee waivers and reductions.
- Tutoring.
Grant Information
Grant # ~ P217A170051
This TRIO McNair Scholars Program is federally funded at $283,397 annually through the U.S. Department of Education.
Contact Us
Troy Abfalter, MA
Director
Tower Hall, Room 2139
218-625-4833
tabfalte@css.edu
Julian Vela
Academic Coordinator
Tower Hall, Room 2139
218-723-5932
jvela1@css.edu