Dear FCEA TRIO Alum,
We are deeply grateful that you are part of the TRIO family. Your journey through the Upward
Bound and/or Talent Search program is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact TRIO
has had on generations of students. Over 27,000 students were assisted in enrolling in
postsecondary institutions across the United States.
We are launching an Alumni Giving Circle to further support and expand the number of students we serve. TRIO is facing an unprecedented challenge. The U.S. Department of Education has not yet issued Grant Award Notifications (GANs) for the new program year. Without these critical federal funds, we are unable to sustain our staffing levels, and dedicated TRIO professionals who have walked side by side with students will be let go. This means fewer advisors in classrooms, fewer college readiness workshops, and fewer helping hands to guide students through FAFSA completion and college placement.
Despite these challenges, the need for TRIO remains. This past May, one of our students, Benita Romero, became the first in her family to graduate with her college degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Majoring in Information Sciences with a minor in Game Studies and Design, Benita has landed a spot in the Leadership and Technical Development Program (LTDP) at Caterpillar Inc. Like many students, Benita attributes her success to the support she received from TRIO. With TRIO’s guidance, she completed the FAFSA, toured campuses before committing to UIUC, and received scholarships that made her dream possible. Stories like Benita’s remind us of the mission we cannot afford to lose.
We ask that you join our Alumni Giving Circle. You know firsthand the power of TRIO.
Whether a small monthly commitment or a one-time contribution, your gift will directly fuel the
services that students urgently need during this uncertain time.
By giving back, you are ensuring that FCEA continues to stand as a lifeline for first-generation
and low-income students. Together, we can keep the doors of opportunity open, even in the face of funding delays.
Will you join us today? Scan the QR code below to give! Your gift, no matter the size, will help
us bridge this gap and continue serving students who need TRIO now more than ever.
Thank you for standing with us in this month of both challenge and hope. With your support, we will continue building a legacy of opportunity and success for the next generation.
With gratitude and TRIO pride,
Dr. Jonathan McKenzie
Chief Executive Officer
