JWCC trustees hear report on Student Support Services grant program
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By DAVID CAMPHOUSE
John Wood Community College will continue its longstanding support for first-generation college students thanks to a renewed federal grant totaling nearly $1.9 million over five years.
At its regular meeting on Sept. 17, the JWCC Board of Trustees announced the renewal of the TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The college will receive $389,975 annually through 2030, enabling continued academic and personal support for up to 175 students each year who are low-income, first-generation, or have documented disabilities.
JWCC first received TRiO funding in 1991. The program provides comprehensive services including academic advising, success coaching, tutoring, peer mentoring, financial literacy education, FAFSA assistance, career planning, transfer advising, leadership development, and cultural enrichment.
“The TRiO student support model works,” JWCC Interim President Josh Welker stated in a news release. “When advisors have the tools and time to build meaningful relationships, students find the support, skills, experiences, and direction they need to be successful at JWCC, their chosen four-year institution, and career path. We are grateful for the continued federal support that makes a direct impact on student success.”
The Board also approved a $106,575 proposal from Peters Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. to replace water source heat pumps and loop pumps at JWCC’s Agricultural Center. The upgrades are part of ongoing efforts to modernize campus infrastructure and improve energy efficiency.
In other action, trustees accepted $60,054 in grant funding from the Illinois Green Economy Network to purchase an HVAC Mechanical Drive Trainer System. The equipment will enhance hands-on learning for students in HVAC and Industrial Maintenance programs, focusing on mechanical drive efficiencies including belts and hoses.
The Board also accepted $18,000 from the Illinois Board of Higher Education for the Illinois Cooperative Work Study grant. If approved, the funds will support internships for students pursuing careers in high-demand fields.
Several grant applications were authorized for submission to the Illinois Community College Board, including:
$110,000 for the Noncredit Strategies at Work grant to support workforce training that bridges into credit-bearing credentials.
$180,000 for the Strengthening Mental Health Supports grant to meet requirements under the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act.
Up to $375,000 for the Innovative Bridge and Transition Program to facilitate seamless student transitions into career pathways.
The next JWCC Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. on the Quincy campus.
