Wilmington, DE – The U.S. Department of Education has awarded over $821,000 in federal grant money to the University of Delaware and Delaware Technical and Community College under the TRIO Student Support Services program. The University of Delaware will receive $277,500; Delaware Technical and Community College’s Georgetown campus will receive $278,295, and the Dover campus of Delaware Technical and Community College will receive $265,760. The Student Support Services (SSS) program provides grants to higher education institutions for projects that offer support services to increase the retention and graduation rates of low-income and first generation college students, and college students with disabilities. It aims to foster an institutional climate that is supportive of their success and to help facilitate their transfer from two-year to four-year colleges. In addition to providing support services, the institutions of higher learning may use up to 20 percent of the total federal grant funds for grant-aid to eligible students. “I am proud that the U.S. Department of Education has awarded this money to the University of Delaware and Delaware Technical and Community College,” said Senator Tom Carper. “All students deserve a fair shot, and this grant will enable those who need assistance the most to receive the support and tools for success.” Services provided under this grant include: Instructions in reading, writing, study skills and mathematics Personal counseling Academic advisement and assistance in course selection Exposure to cultural events and academic programs Mentoring programs Activities designed to acquaint students with a range of available career options Activities designed to assist participants in transferring from a two-year institution to a four-year institution Assistance in securing admission and financial aid for enrollment in graduate and professional programs