TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University’s TRIO program celebrated National TRIO Day by extending
its impact beyond campus, participating in a Read-a-Thon at Astoria Park Elementary
School that brought literacy, mentorship and encouragement to local students.
Observed annually, National TRIO Day highlights federally funded programs designed
to advance student success and increase access to higher education for underserved
populations. Celebrated nationwide each February, the day brings together thousands
of students, educators and alumni in service and advocacy efforts that underscore
the lasting impact of TRIO programs. In alignment with its mission, FAMU’s TRIO program
used the occasion to engage with young learners and promote the value of education
within the Tallahassee community.
TRIO Academic Coordinator Levia Wiley-Jackson emphasized the importance of service
and community engagement.
“I felt it was necessary,” she said. “It’s important to give back, and this is a great
reflection of what our program stands for. I hope this becomes a trend.”
A Florida A&M University TRIO student ambassador smiles while representing the program
during National TRIO Day activities, highlighting FAMU’s commitment to student success
and STEM engagement. (Photo Courtesy: TRIO Program)
Last week, TRIO staff and student volunteers visited Astoria Park Elementary School
as part of the school’s Black History Month Read-a-Thon. Volunteers read a selection
of children’s books chosen by teachers, highlighting themes of Black history and self-acceptance.
In addition to reading sessions, volunteers hosted an ice cream social that recognized
students for their academic achievements, creating a celebratory and encouraging environment
for young learners.
Fifth-year mechanical engineering student Glenn Reid, a TRIO academic tutor for four
years, described the experience as both meaningful and rewarding.
“It was a great experience, and I would love to do this again,” Reid said.
For junior political science major Shania Soleil, a former student of Astoria Park
Elementary, the event held personal significance.
“Going back was a full-circle moment,” Soleil said. “I remember being in their shoes.
It felt like I was becoming the role model I once looked up to.”
Through initiatives like the Read-a-Thon, FAMU’s TRIO program continues to bridge
the gap between higher education and the community. By providing academic assistance,
mentorship and career guidance, the program not only empowers current college students
but also inspires younger generations to view higher education as an attainable goal.
TRIO programs, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, are designed to support
low-income, first-generation college students and students with disabilities as they
progress through the academic pipeline, from middle school to postsecondary education.
At FAMU, TRIO serves as an umbrella for programs such as Upward Bound, Talent Search,
Student Support Services and the Educational Opportunity Center, each offering targeted
academic and career readiness support.
FAMU TRIO students and volunteers engage with local youth during a Read-a-Thon at
Astoria Park Elementary School, distributing treats and celebrating academic achievement
as part of National TRIO Day. (Photo Courtesy: TRIO Program)
Wiley-Jackson summarized the organization’s impact on students.
“I like to say that we’re the family within the FAMUly,” she said. “We support our
students in every way we can and serve as the system they need to succeed.”
Through services such as academic coaching, tutoring, financial aid guidance and career
planning, TRIO programs aim to ease students’ transition into college, increase retention
and prepare them for successful careers.
For more information about FAMU’s TRIO programs, visit https://cpdcenter.famu.edu/channels/trio/.
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu