MATTESON—(ENEWSPF)—October 7, 2015. Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced today that Governors State University and Joliet Junior College each received five-year grants to expand programs aimed at strengthening student services and academic support for low-income students.
“The federal funds will help keep students on track toward completing their degrees by expanding and improving academic and career path guidance services,” Rep. Kelly said. “GSU and JJC are both outstanding schools with proven track records of successfully navigating low-income students toward graduation.”
Governor State University will use its $426,027 grant to improve the transition of students into junior year, increase the retention of all students, especially underrepresented groups, and improve the rates of students attaining a baccalaureate degree.
“We are thrilled with this news, said Dr. Elaine P. Maimon, president of Governors State University. “We will use the funds for projects that will directly benefit our students and continue our momentum as a model university.”
The $413,956 grant received by Joliet Junior College will enable the school to strengthen its Progressive Pathways to Student Success Program, an online information and coaching system designed to increase achievement and support students from the point of acceptance through degree completion.
“I am so proud of the hard work of our faculty and staff that led to JJC achieving this prestigious grant,” said Dr. Debra Daniels, president of Joliet Junior College “This is a significant grant that will help us support student retention and completion. More specifically, it will help us invest in technology to customize our outreach to students and enhance our support systems to assist students in developing a career path.”
The grant is administered by the Strengthening Institutions Program, which helps colleges and universities expand their capacity to serve low-income students.
Source: www.robinkelly.house.gov
