What is TRIO?

The Academic Advancement Center is a Student Support Services TRIO program, one of five educational opportunity programs established by the U.S. Congress to help low-income and first generation Americans enter college, graduate, and move on to participate more fully in America's economic and social life. Beginning in 1965, TRIO programs have been funded by the U.S. Department of Education to serve students from middle school through graduate school.

The Academic Advancement Center/Student Support Services was first funded in 1978 as the first TRIO program at Colorado State University. Now, CSU is the only Colorado higher education institution that serves students via all five types of TRIO programs. Educational Talent Search, Upward Bound and the Educational Opportunity Center prepare students to attend college, and are housed in the Center for Educational Access and Outreach. AAC/Student Support Services assists students to obtain their bachelors degree, and the McNair Scholars Program prepares students for graduate school.

Information on TRIO programs nationally can be found at the U.S. Department of Education and at the Council for Educational Opportunity.