Critics warned the move could create a skilled-worker shortage. Within the next decade, 72% of jobs are expected to require a college degree or professional credential. TRIO programs offer mentoring, tutoring and financial literacy education.
Dan Sullivan, executive site director for College Track, a program helping equip students for college and future careers, said cutting them would affect students who are the first in their families to attend college.
“These are students that have drive, talent, persistence, commitment. Taking this away is going to take away an incredible resource for our country, our workforce,” Sullivan contended.
College registrars estimated as many as 21,000 Kentucky first-generation students could be affected by the 2027 federal budget cuts, which could cut more than $1 billion from programs for low-income students.
The Trump administration claimed TRIO initiatives failed to reach their goals but backers from both major parties called it a success and argued it should be fully funded.
Sullivan pointed out first-generation students face hurdles many classmates never see, like navigating applications and financial aid without a family playbook. He added College Track’s 10-year commitment to students starts in high school by helping them become more academically competitive to get into college and take steps toward a career.
“Finding and applying for internships or externships where they can get some of that both on-the-job experience, but also start to build their own network. Because they're not inheriting a network from friends and family nearly as much when they're first generation,” Sullivan said.
Statewide data show an estimated 43% of college students in the Bluegrass State are the first in their families to attend college. Most Kentucky colleges support so-called "first-gen" students with dedicated support programs, communities and advocacy networks.