Protect TRIO

Thanks to your advocacy for all Federal TRIO programs, the Department of Education released all TRIO grant funds by September 30, 2025. However, we mourn the loss of over 100 cancelled TRIO grants serving 40,000 or 5% of all TRIO students. Only through your continued support will Congress take steps to ensure these programs are reinstated and that TRIO funding is sustained in FY26.

Step 1: Craft your message

You’ve signed the petitions. Now it’s time to hit the phones and jam the lines on Capitol Hill!

Be clear, concise, and direct. Personalize your story if possible. Tell legislators what TRIO has meant to you, your family, your students, or your community.

 

Contact Congress Now

Step 2: Invite five friends to do the same.

Multiply the strength of your efforts and invite five friends, colleagues, and other supporters to engage in these same steps as noted above.

Through this collective action our voices will be heard, our messages will be clear, and we will prevail in our assignment to #ProtectTRIO!

Step 3: Share feedback with COE!

Submit information about your advocacy outreach to COE.

These reports show reach and momentum, identify offices needing follow-up, and strengthen our collective advocacy.

  • Questions or need help? COE can assist with targeting, messaging, and follow-up. Contact Diane Shust, Vice President of Public Policy at [email protected], or Tommy Walls, Director of Alumni & Career Opportunities at [email protected].
REPORT FEEDBACK

Invite your Member of Congress to campus

Organize a short visit or virtual briefing with your Member’s district staff and local media to showcase McNair’s work.

Bring students, faculty mentors, and alumni to tell their stories in person.

Quick steps to request a visit:

  • Contact the Member’s district scheduler and ask for a 30–45 minute on-campus briefing.

  • Prepare a short program (welcome, student testimony, tour of lab or research space, one pager with outcomes).

  • Follow up with the district office and send a written summary and photos.

How to Host Your Members of Congress

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Get in Touch

Questions? Contact Vice President, Public Policy, Diane Shust.

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