Last Updated on March 4, 2025 by Jordan Monaco

Pendleton, Oregon – Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) is proud to announce that the Oregon TRIO Association has awarded a $7,000 grant to support the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program. This funding will further expand technology access for students, building on last year’s initiative, which provided take-home laptops, to meet a wider range of technological needs.

BMCC’s TRIO SSS program serves over 100 students, most of whom are first-generation college students from low-income backgrounds. Recognizing the essential role technology plays in student success, BMCC remains committed to ensuring that students have the tools necessary to excel in their studies.

“This funding allows us to continue bridging the digital divide for our students,” said Matt Bisek, Executive Director of TRIO Student Support Services at BMCC. “While last year’s grant focused on providing take-home laptops, this new funding will support additional technology needs that enhance student learning and program services.”

For many TRIO students, having access to reliable technology is a game changer. One student shared the impact the program has had on their education:

“Having a laptop will be a great advantage for me because I work full-time, and most of my courses are online. This allows me to complete my homework on my own schedule with less stress.” – I. Moffett

The TRIO SSS program at BMCC provides comprehensive academic support, including tutoring, study skills development, assistance with course selection, and help with financial aid and scholarship applications. By improving access to essential technology, BMCC is working to remove barriers that often prevent students from achieving their educational goals.

This initiative reflects BMCC’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, reinforcing its mission to empower students from all backgrounds to reach their full potential.

For more information about BMCC’s TRIO Student Support Services program, visit https://bluecc.edu/services/trio.