TRIO Student Services

Providing support to underserved populations

TRIO Student Support Services is a federally funded program designed to provide academic support, cultural activities and personal development programming to traditionally underserved populations that often face barriers in higher education: first generation, low income and differently abled students.

Simpson First Generation Students

TRIO SSS Values

TRIO Student Support Services assists Simpson College students who are first-generation, low-income, and/or disabled toward the successful completion of baccalaureate degrees by providing opportunities for academic, personal, and professional development, as well as financial support.

We value access for all to appropriate resources and opportunities, enabling each individual to succeed.

We value the transformative power of human relationships and understand their role in creating the conditions for success.

We value comprehensive education comprised of knowledge, skills and personal growth.

We value, recognize and nurture tenacity in the face of barriers.

We value the development of confident, independent and productive individuals.

Trio students in Dunn

TRIO SSS Benefits

You’ll access a unique culture and community dedicated to your success and creating pathways for students like you in the future. Among the many tangible benefits you’ll receive:

  • One-on-one advising from SSS staff
  • Priority registration
  • Free 24/7 online live tutoring and writing assistance
  • Social opportunities and the chance to meet new people
  • CampusConnect: a selective summer program for incoming first-year students
  • Skill-building workshops
  • Financial literacy education
  • Scholarships for first-and second-year students who are Pell Grant eligible and meet participation criteria
  • Leadership opportunities
  • Peer Mentoring
  • Professional networking and mentoring
  • Free school supplies provided with academic skills workshops

TRIO SSS Eligibility

Eligibility is determined by federal regulations. To qualify, a student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Be a first-generation college student (neither parent has a bachelor’s degree)
  • Meet TRIO income guidelines (most students who qualify for Pell Grant also meet the TRIO low-income guidelines)
  • Have a documented disability

Application Details

Complete an SSS application and mail to Student Support Services, 701 North C St., Indianola, IA 50125. Email questions to SSS Director Stephanie Neve at stephanie.neve@simpson.edu.