The TRIO program changed Deputy Mayor Krystal Reyes’ life. It’s done the same for more than 26,000 Tulsa Community College students over the past 24 years.
Reyes joined TCC students, faculty and supporters Monday to recognize this year’s scholarship recipients and celebrate the federal program’s impact in Tulsa with a city proclamation.
TRIO programs have been around nationally for six decades, providing federally funded support to first-generation students, low-income students and students with disabilities hoping to complete higher education.
“(TRIO) staff didn’t make us feel like we were the low-income kids — we were treated like scholars with high expectations,” Reyes said, who participated in the TRIO Upward Bound program as a high schooler. “They helped me see what was possible.”
TRIO shows up in two ways on TCC’s campus: support for active students at the college and resources for those looking for post-secondary opportunities. Through dozens of local partnerships, these two programs have helped thousands of low-income and first-generation students.
TCC’s programs remain as more than 100 similar programs shuttered across the U.S. last year following the Trump administration’s decision to cancel $40 million in TRIO grants. Lawsuits challenging the cancellation amid a federal crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion programs remain ongoing.
Abby Vaughn is a freshman at TCC and received full tuition assistance through TRIO this year. She also has lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. In addition to financial support, TRIO helps her navigate flare ups while she pursues a future as a dental hygienist.
“It makes you feel really accomplished,” Vaughn said. “I reached out for help, and not only did they give it to me, they gave me the money as well — it makes me feel really supported.”
Vaughn and more than 15 other TRIO recipients were honored at Monday’s event, either with scholarships or awards recognizing their growth. The city proclamation establishes a Tulsa-wide TRIO day Feb. 28.
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