Vincennes University receives $1.71 million grant from U.S. Department of Education

Vincennes University has received a $1.71 million grant from the US Department of Education to expand its Federal TRIO Talent Search program, Project ASPIREE (Achieving Success through Participation In Reaching Educational Excellence). The grant will be distributed over five years, coming out to $341,500 annually, which will support 683 students annually.

According to an article on Vincennes University’s website, university President Dr. Chuck Johnson was quoted as saying of the grant, “Vincennes University has always believed that educational opportunity should be within reach for every student, and that there is no single path to success. Whether that path leads to an apprenticeship, a technical credential, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree, Project ASPIREE helps students understand their options and take the steps necessary to pursue them. By reaching students where they live and helping them build a path toward further education and a meaningful career, this program develops young people while strengthening the communities VU serves.”

Project ASPIREE, according to its webpage, seeks to “assist qualified income-eligible and/or first-generation students to re-enter secondary school, complete secondary school and undertake a program of postsecondary education,” through “outreach programming in financial, personal, career, and academic advisement.” 

The program provides free, year-round assistance to middle and high school students, adult learners, and individuals seeking workforce re-entry. Thanks to the grant funding, the program will be expanded and will now serve students who live in Pike and Lawrence counties in addition to the previous service area of Daviess, Martin, and Sullivan counties.

Kimberly Fields, who serves as the Director of Project ASPIREE Talent Search at the university, said of the program, “Over the last 25 years, we’ve watched Talent Search participants grow from uncertain middle schoolers into local doctors, teachers, engineers, and community leaders. Securing this funding means 683 students each year will continue to have a dedicated mentor in their corner, helping them translate their talent into real, life-changing credentials.”

For more information about Vincennes University, visit the school’s website.