The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program recently sent three outstanding scholars to the Circle of Change Leadership Experience in Los Angeles, California, from November 20–23, 2025, at California State University. TRIO SSS is committed to providing students with opportunities that foster leadership, personal growth, and academic success. This dynamic leadership experience equips student leaders with the tools and skills needed to make a meaningful impact on their campus communities while inspiring them to create positive change locally, nationally, and globally.

Gabriel Cucu, a junior majoring in Computer Science with a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, shared his reflections on the conference:

“This conference challenged me to think bigger, step outside my comfort zone, and reflect on the kind of leader I want to become. I walked away feeling more motivated, empowered, and connected than ever. It has encouraged me to write out my vision: My goal is to work in AI and blockchain ethics, ensuring these powerful tools advance society responsibly and equitably.”

Freshman Business Management major Ana Menes also described the experience as transformative:

“The conference overall was beyond perfect and definitely unforgettable. Experiencing something like this in my first year of college was so unexpected, but TRIO made it possible. It was my first time flying, my first conference, and my first time meeting so many new people. Being outside the Northeast was a whole new world for me. Everything—from the Korean Friendship Bell we visited to the millionth palm tree we passed—made the trip even better. I was able to network with welcoming peers and professionals I never imagined meeting without TRIO’s support. I would firmly encourage anyone to go on a trip like this!”

TRIO SSS looks forward to offering more opportunities like this in the future, continuing to inspire and support scholars as they pursue their goals and reach their full potential.

Following the activity, students enjoyed an amazing meal together and played games that helped build connection and community. We were thrilled to have a great turnout—45 TRIO Scholars participated, along with several EOF Scholars, making it a warm and memorable afternoon for all.

The event welcomed 30 students and their families, all of whom will be participating in TRIO’s four-week intensive summer program. Designed to support a smooth academic and social transition to college, the program includes workshops, courses, and personalized support services that help build a strong foundation for student success.

The orientation set a positive tone for the weeks ahead, offering students a chance to connect with peers, meet the dedicated TRIO staff, and learn more about the many resources available to them throughout their journey at BT���� University.

We honored our scholars with certificates of completion and presented them with their graduation cords and stoles. We captured memories at a fun photo booth, enjoyed delicious food, and celebrated together as a vibrant community. We are beyond proud of our scholars and all they’ve accomplished. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

This event was made possible through the leadership and support of the TRIO Mentors for the Class of 2028, Trinity Smith and Alexandra Gomez. Their dedication and coordination played a vital role in ensuring the event ran smoothly and provided valuable opportunities for students to connect, practice interview skills, and gain confidence in such a supportive environment.

Over the weekend of March 15, the Director, Sarah Smyth and Assistant Director, Katelyn Joyce of TRIO SSS attended the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) Policy Seminar in Washington, D.C., where they advocated for TRIO SSS programs, their mission, and the students they serve on Capitol Hill. They engaged in discussions surrounding advocacy efforts.

On Thursday, March 20, 2025, the TRIO SSS Program, EOF Program, and the Career Engagement & Experiential Learning department collaborated to host the “Empowering Our First-Generation Students” panel that had 15 scholars in attendance. The event was moderated by Dr. Joseph Jimenez, Ed.D., Graduate Studies Career Coach, who led a dynamic discussion on the benefits of support programs and their role in developing students’ social capital while building upon the NACE competencies.

Panelists included Knight Ambubuyog, Director of EOF, Sarah Smyth, Director of TRIO, and Katelyn Joyce, Assistant Director of Career Engagement & Experiential Learning. Each panelist shared personal experiences as first-generation college students, detailing how support programs played a pivotal role in their academic and professional journeys. They discussed the long-term impact these programs have had, both in their student lives and as first-generation professionals, underscoring how such initiatives continue to foster success.

This event provided valuable insights into the resources available for first-generation students, highlighting the importance of support programs in shaping future leaders and professionals.

Out of the 25 students who participated, 12 were also accepted into the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program. Through EOF, these students will continue to receive personal, professional, career, and academic support throughout their first year and beyond.

The Summer Bridge Program continues to play a vital role in preparing students for success at Saint Peter’s University by offering valuable academic coursework and holistic support that extends beyond the classroom.

Throughout the summer, students earned three college credits in Introduction to Sociology, which will count toward their core graduation requirements. In addition to academic enrichment, students received supplemental math support, peer mentoring, and participated in career and personal development workshops designed to enhance their skills and prepare them for success in higher education.

A key highlight of the program was a visit to Junior Achievement Finance Park, where students learned valuable financial literacy skills. The trip focused on teaching students about various types of loans, including student and credit card debt, and strategies for avoiding overspending in the future.

The TRIO SSS program continues to offer a range of support services to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed academically and personally.