WORCESTER, MA – October 14, 2026 – Quinsigamond Community College’s TRIO Student Support Services recently unveiled its newly renovated program space during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, increasing capacity and strengthening support for students. TRIO is a federally funded program that supports first-generation college students, students who meet income eligibility requirements, and students with documented disabilities. In addition to the classic TRIO program, QCC received funding for a TRIO STEM-Health Sciences program, which will serve eligible health sciences students.
"The ultimate goal is to get students to persist, graduate and continue their education," said Project Director of TRIO Programs Peter Munene. "I was a first-generation college student. I feel like if I had found a program like this in college, it would have been a game-changer for me."
Students in the TRIO program receive support throughout their entire QCC experience, from registering for classes to support accessing Career Services, Financial Aid, Parenting Student Services, and the college’s HomePlate Food Pantry & Resource Center, among others. Tutoring and workshops are primarily provided by education specialists, while academic counselors offer individualized support and connection to wraparound services.
Student Juliana Rosas credited TRIO with helping her build meaningful connections at the College while also preparing her for the rigorous exams required for admission to the healthcare program. She now helps others in the TRIO program in her work-study position.
“You don’t just get thrown in the deep end to figure things out by yourself,” Rosas said. “TRIO helps from the beginning to the end. They are really compassionate.”
The newly renovated space serves as a welcoming hub where students study, connect with peers, and access the support they need to succeed. Beyond campus, TRIO also helps students explore their future through visits to colleges and universities, giving them firsthand exposure to the opportunities that await after QCC.