Federal TRIO Programs

The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) are Federally funded outreach and service programs designed to identify and provide service for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to postbaccalaureate programs. At this time, Tarleton has three of the eight programs; One College program: Student Support Services and Two Pre-College programs: Talent Search and Upward Bound.

These programs welcome everyone regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Our programs provides learning opportunities to all participants.

Choosing a Program

College Program: Student Support Services is available to currently enrolled Tarleton students on the Stephenville campus.

Pre-College Programs: Some high schools have the ability to choose between Upward Bound and Talent Search, while others are assigned to a single program. Program availability is most often determined based on location. If you do not see the high school you are looking for on this list below, please check with your school’s guidance counselor for opportunities in your area.

Three Upward Bound (UB) Girls stand side by side smiling while wearing matching UB Program Shirts
With a $1.18 million dollar grant, Tarleton will help 500 students prepare for college.

Please select the appropriate location below to determine which service are available in your area.

Contact Us

Student Support Services Director

Jenny Watts

Tarleton Center, Room 137

 [email protected]

 254-968-9369

Talent Search Director


Luisa Cossio

Tarleton Center, Room 139

[email protected]

 254-459-5441

Upward Bound Director


Maria (MiMi) Vazquez

Tarleton Center, Room 138

[email protected]

 254-968-9294