Utah State University (USU) has landed a substantial sum in federal grants aimed at bolstering student achievement across its Logan and Blanding campuses. The U.S. Department of Education has opted to extend its financial support to the tune of $1.8 million for the Logan campus and $1.5 million for Blanding, as reported by a recent USU announcement. This influx of funds, set to be distributed over five years, marks an ongoing commitment spanning over forty years to USU’s Student Support Services (SSS) programs.
These grants are not only financial lifelines meant to ease the burden on students but are also poised to heighten the odds of college completion. “We’re deeply grateful for this grant and the opportunity it provides our students. For many, college isn’t just a goal. It’s a life changing dream. This support helps us ensure students don’t just earn a degree but thrive along the way. At USU, we’re committed to empowering them to turn their dreams into reality,” Kristian Olsen, vice president for residential campuses, told USU Today.
The grant-funded SSS program provides a comprehensive range of supports such as academic tutoring, financial support, and scholarship guidance, among others. These resources are integral to helping students navigate the nuances of higher education with minimal debt burdens upon graduation. According to USU Today, the university’s grant proposal received a perfect score from the Department of Education reviewers, reflecting USU’s high degree of dedication toward fostering student advancement.
Heidi Kesler, executive director for the Center for Academic Belonging & Learning Excellence, emphasized the importance of developing strong adult habits in academia. She explained, “This score is a reflection of the high level of commitment to student success found throughout the USU enterprise. When students practice the adult behaviors of help-seeking, networking, and building their learning community, they are much more likely to achieve their academic goals. TRIO teaches students these valuable adult habits,” as she shared with USU Today. This holistic approach aims not only just necessary fortify a student's academic skill set but also to instill life-long strategies for success.
