Doane celebrates most recent crop of TRiO Program grads

CRETE, NE — As college students get ready to close out the year, some getting ready to graduate from Doane University are marking the occasion.

"It was beautiful. It's always great to see the people you care about come together, have a good time and celebrate."

That’s Doane student body president Will Grixby. He’s one of several Doane students taking part in the TRiO program who is nearing the end of his college career.

He says he’s benefitted greatly from the federal program designed for those from low-income households, first-generation students and students with disabilities.

"Not a lot of people know what it means to a certain group of people, but TRiO, a lot of students at Doane wouldn't be able to go through Doane if it weren't for [Doane Academic Support Services Executive Director Anita Harkins Mehsling], the whole TRiO Program and Academic Success Center. It means a ton to me and a ton of other people."

Part of the ceremony included a tree planting — a physical representation of the legacy the graduates will leave behind. Mathematics and data analytics major Arian Alai says everyone who can should use the TRiO’s Programs resources.

"I had no idea what I was doing when I came here as a freshman. It helped me to hold myself accountable and do the right things."

Nearly 50 percent of Doane’s residential students participated in some sort of TRiO program this year from tutoring to cultural events. University President Dr. Roger Hughes says that highlights the program’s importance.

"They don't see themselves maybe as college graduates because they've not had any models. This allows them to get the resources they need so when they need a kick in the pants, so to speak, to get going or a hug because they failed, this program is right there to perform the personal touch that Doane always has done to help students succeed."

The TRiO program is nationwide and funded through grants. About 30 Doane students who utilized the TRiO Program are slated to receive their degrees in May.