National TRiO Day recognizes CState student success

National TRiO Day is celebrated each year on the fourth Saturday in February, to recognize the importance of the TRiO grant programs funded by the U.S. Dept. of Education.

TRiO funding provides educational opportunity for low-income, first-generation students, and facilitates services to help these students achieve their academic goals.

This week, Daily News is highlighting the TRiO College Access Programs at CState and the students they serve.

Bintou Diallo, a participant in Student Support Services (SSS), is majoring in Nursing, and plans to use her knowledge to “empower my community and be a good example for other women.” 

“You can achieve your academic goals as an ESL (English as a Second Language) student if you work hard,” Bintou said.

Student Support Services is a Cincinnati State TRiO program that assists students who are first-generation college students, students with disabilities, or students who meet Federal income guidelines.

James Busemeyer, a TRiO Tutoring Specialist, said, “Working with Bintou has been truly a joy! She is prepared for her sessions, and is a highly motivated hard worker who strives to push herself to learn more.”

Tutoring Specialist Carolyn Rutland-White said, “Bintou has been one of my active tutoring students since Fall 2020, and I have been impressed with her academic work ethic and ability to quickly grasp each subject, even though English is not her first language.”

“Bintou recognized that she needed some help with math and English classes and she sought help from TRiO SSS. She is an excellent student who tries to be the best at whatever task is at hand,” Carolyn added.

For more information, visit the College Access Programs page of the College website.