The TRiO Program helps low income, first generation, and students with disabilities build social networks, it also provides mentoring, facilitates successful transfer to four-year universities, and empowers students to succeed in college and beyond.

Despite the success of the administrators of this program at Truman College in winning a new federal grant, the staff has been fired and forced to re-interview for their positions.

The staff which includes the Director Roberto Valadez, Student Support Specialist Bernadeth "Bernie" "Mom" Weekes, and Administrative Assistant Danubia Guerra, provided TRiO students with personal academic advising and mentoring, tutoring, transfer assistance, financial aid assistance, cultural events and social activities. Not to mention they keep us focused and sane throughout the school year.

This has been a confusing time for TRiO students starting out this semester as most students have relationships with the staff and are concerned about losing their support system.

This is where you come in. Please support us in petitioning the Board of Trustees in charge of the hiring and firing of TRiO staff. Please sign our statement of support.