University of Evansville Launches TRIO Student Support Services Program to Advance Student Success

Tracy Gerth Appointed Project Director

Evansville, Ind. (02/12/2026) — The University of Evansville (UE) has launched a new TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program, a federally funded initiative through the U.S. Department of Education designed to increase college retention and graduation rates for first-generation students, income-eligible students, and students with disabilities. UE's initiative grant total for TRIO is approximately $1 million.

TRIO Student Support Services is part of the nationally recognized TRIO portfolio of programs, established under the Higher Education Act of 1965 to promote educational access for students who face systemic barriers to higher education. UE's TRIO SSS program will provide comprehensive, personalized support to help students persist, thrive, and graduate.

"TRIO Student Support Services represents a powerful investment in our students and in the University of Evansville's mission to support access, opportunity, and success," said Mary Kessler, UE Acting Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. "This program strengthens our ability to meet students where they are and provide the tools and guidance they need to reach their full potential."

Supporting Student Success at UE

The University of Evansville's TRIO SSS Program is designed to serve 140 undergraduate students annually, focusing on students who meet federal TRIO eligibility criteria. The program responds to documented challenges faced by this population, including academic preparedness gaps, financial barriers, and the complexities of navigating college systems.

The program has established ambitious, student-focused goals, including:

• 80% year-to-year persistence for participating students
• 95% of participants maintaining good academic standing
• 70% graduation rate within six years

To achieve these outcomes, UE's TRIO Student Support Services Program will provide a comprehensive suite of evidence-based supports, including individualized Academic Success Plans with ongoing coaching and progress reviews; academic tutoring; financial aid advising and financial literacy education; career readiness and graduate school preparation; and cultural enrichment experiences. These enrichment opportunities, such as visits to museums, historical sites, arts events, and community organizations, are designed to broaden students' worldviews and connect academic learning to real-world experiences.

Leadership Appointment

The University of Evansville is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracy Gerth as Project Director of the TRIO Student Support Services Program. Gerth has been with the University since 2022, most recently serving as Assistant Director of the Center for Career Development.

"We are especially excited to welcome an internal leader into this role," said Kessler. "Tracy brings deep knowledge of our students, a strong commitment to student success, and a proven dedication to the University of Evansville community. She is exceptionally well-positioned to build and lead this program with vision, compassion, and excellence."

As Project Director, Gerth will oversee program implementation, student services, compliance with federal requirements, and campus collaboration to ensure the program's long-term impact.

For more information about the TRIO Student Support Services Program at the University of Evansville, visit https://www.evansville.edu/trio/index.cfm.