Grant ensures Westfield State can continue student aid program

Date: 8/31/2010

Sept. 1, 2010

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor

WESTFIELD -- Westfield State University (WSU) will be able to continue its commitment to students in need for the next five years thanks to the renewal of a $1.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

The grant will provide 160 students with free academic tutoring, personal and financial counseling and other special services through the TRiO Student Support Services Program (SSSP) in an effort to ensure retention and graduation. The university has maintained the TRiO SSSP for more than 30 years with the help of government funding.

"Westfield State University was founded by Horace Mann in 1838 on a creed of admitting students regardless of race, gender or economic status. This grant allows us to continue to follow that creed," Robert Hayes, vice president of academic affairs at WSU, said.

When asked if college officials were concerned the multi-year grant would not be renewed, Hayes said the program's "strong track record" of success at WSU made that unlikely.

However, he noted that officials were concerned the university's grant allocation would be significantly less given the current economic climate. WSU received funding comparable to previous grant cycles, Hayes added.

The funding allows students in danger of dropping out because of financial hardships with the opportunity to receive assistance, Hayes added.

"TRiO's success is in the numbers. During the 2008-2009 academic year, 91 percent of first year students successfully completed their first academic year as compared to the national average of 82 percent," according to WSU President Dr. Evan Dobelle.

Students eligible for the program include those who experience economic hardship, who are first-generation college students or who have disabilities.

Some students in the program receive a portion of the grant's $35,000 set aside for scholarships.

"This program has remarkably impacted student lives throughout its history and we have had some real success stories," Lorri LaMagdelaine, TRiO SSSP director at WSU, said. "We feel very fortunate to be able to continue collaborating with students as they learn how to navigate their careers and succeed."