Lakewood, WA — Pierce College has received more than $5.5 million in federal TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grants to expand services for students who are low-income, first-generation, or have documented disabilities. For the first time, these grants will fund TRIO programs at both the Fort Steilacoom and Puyallup campuses.
“These awards reflect our unwavering commitment to equity and student success across our district,” said Pierce College Chancellor and CEO Julie White. “Expanding TRIO programs at both of our campuses will empower students who have historically faced barriers in their pursuit of higher education and allows us to deepen our promise to the Pierce County community: that higher education is within reach for everyone.”
In addition to the renewed TRIO Student Support Services grant for Pierce College Fort Steilacoom, Pierce College has secured a new grant for the Puyallup campus and two additional TRIO SSS–Disabilities grants for both campuses. These funds will support 500 students annually across our district and fund a dedicated team of staff at each campus.
“I have seen firsthand the lasting impact these programs have on students’ educational journeys,” said Pierce College Dean of Student Engagement, Learning, and Student Success Davi Kallman. “TRIO opens the doors to opportunity, guidance, and belonging that make student success possible.”
Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, TRIO SSS programs provide comprehensive support to students who face systemic barriers to higher education. Services include academic advising, tutoring, financial aid assistance, university transfer planning, college and career exploration, and personal development workshops. The TRIO SSS-D programs support students with disabilities, offering tailored support to help students thrive in a college environment.
This funding reflects Pierce College’s deep commitment to student success and the impactful work of our TRIO and Access and Disability Services (ADS) teams. Through wraparound support, the college empowers students to start strong, thrive academically, graduate, and transfer to continue their educational journeys.