Madonna University in Livonia was recently selected by the US Department of Education to receive a Student Support Services (SSS) grant in the amount of $1.2 million over five years.

“We are elated to receive this vital funding to students with incredible potential to change lives," Connie Tingson-Gatuz, vice president for Student Affairs and Mission Integration, said in a release issued on the university website. "Closely aligned with our Madonna mission and core values, this funding enables us to continue to support first-generation, low income, and students with disabilities for the next five years.”

SSS grants are designed to assist first-generation college students, low-income students and students with disabilities. Grant funds assist with academic advising, tutoring, college and career mentoring, financial aid advice and other services. This aid helps more students graduate or transfer with the lowest possible debt.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the systemic inequality and financial hardship which keep promising students from succeeding in college," Maureen Hoyler, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education, said in the release. "Student Support Services is needed now more than ever.”

Started in 1968, SSS is one of eight "TRIO" programs designed by the Higher Education Act to help students succeed in college. The program recognizes that first-generation college students have difficulty navigating the college landscape. It gives low-income students academic opportunities they may not have had and enables students with disabilities to thrive academically.

Madonna University has received SSS funding for its TRIO program for 42 years running.