USC Sumter OSP Alumni-TRiO

09/03/2026

An update on TRIO Talent Search & Educational Opportunity Centers

The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) has shared an update on the U.S. Department of Education’s FY 2026 Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) grant awards.

While hundreds of TRIO programs will continue serving students and families, the initial awards also show a reduction in the overall number of programs funded. Some communities may lose access to longstanding TRIO services, while other programs remain under consideration.

This news is a reminder of how important TRIO advocacy and support continue to be. TRIO programs help students and families navigate college access, financial aid, career preparation, and educational opportunities.

We are grateful to everyone who has spoken up for TRIO and will continue to stand with the students, families, educators, alumni, and communities who depend on these programs.

Read the full update from the Council for Opportunity in Education below.

The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) expressed mixed emotions about the initial results. COE is gratified that the Department followed congressional directives and moved forward with the competitions, allowing hundreds of TRIO projects to continue serving students and families.

09/03/2026

09/02/2026

Why does TRIO matter?

Because sometimes, having someone believe in you can make all the difference. TRIO provides more than academic support—it creates community, encouragement, and opportunities that can stay with students long after graduation.

To our OSP Alumni: What did TRIO mean to you? Share your story or a favorite memory in the comments!

Once an OSP Scholar, always part of the TRIO family.

08/28/2026

What advice would YOU give to new college freshmen?

07/23/2026

We would like to feature YOU for our Student Spotlight! Want to participate? DM us your favorite picture of you and your parent, sibling, grandparent, chosen family, or mentor, and write a short message of gratitude or reflection! We want to honor you and the people who have helped you get where you are today!

05/28/2026

“The Opportunity Scholars Program (OSP) set me up for success in many ways. I was very nervous about the transition from high school to college, but being in OSP and coming to college two weeks earlier than when the first semester started relieved my nerves. I was able to learn my way around campus, make new friends, easily ask for help at any time from people I knew and trusted, and have a great time on our outings. I cannot express how much OSP helped me; not only in the enormous transition from high school to college, but also in the invaluable lessons taught to us during those two weeks during the summer before the fall semester. Additionally, since neither of my parents was fortunate enough to attend college, I had much to learn about college, and OSP stepped in and stepped up. Now that my younger brother will be attending USC Sumter this upcoming semester, I hope he has the same opportunity as me and can enjoy all of the support that OSP offers. ” - Caroline Dollard

05/11/2026

“TRIO played a huge role in my educational journey by constantly supporting and encouraging me throughout my time in college. They provided guidance, resources, and motivation that helped me stay focused on my goals. Their support became the driving force behind my decision to continue my education and work toward earning my bachelor’s degree. I’m incredibly grateful for the impact TRIO has had on both my academic success and personal growth. They never stopped believing in me.” -Emerald McElveny

05/11/2026

04/29/2026

On Monday, April 27, we had the honor of celebrating excellence at our OSP Awards Ceremony 🎉

We proudly recognized our Spring and Fall 2025 Dean’s List and President’s List recipients, celebrated our incredible graduates, and honored this year’s OSPY Award winners. Each student recognized represents the dedication, resilience, and hard work that define our campus community.

Your achievements do not go unnoticed, and we are so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. We can’t wait to see what’s next for each of you!