Harry S Truman College to Invest Millions in its Student Support Services Thanks to a New Grant

Truman College has been awarded more than $2.7 million through a Developing Hispanic Serving Institution (DHSI) grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

Here’s where Truman plans to spend the money over the next five years.

• The Student Development and Engagement Center (SDEC) offers training and practical experiences to help students pursue postsecondary pathways and connect with staff, faculty, and alumni.
• The First Year Experience (FYE) Center focuses on building connections, ensuring academic readiness, and providing holistic support for students in their first year.
• The Truman Bilingual Learning Center (TBLC) supports Latinx students by promoting bilingualism, career readiness, and professional development.

• The Innovation One Resource Hub provides technology resources, access to technology training, and serves as a workspace and learning hub.
• The Academic Support Centers (ASC) provide free, individualized tutoring to students who work closely with faculty to reach their academic goals.

Most of the money will go toward the SDEC. Other funds will go to hiring a Director of Student Development, tutors, coaches, and furniture for the SDEC. $25,000 has been allotted for technology for neurodivergent learners.

DHSI grants are awarded to Hispanic-Serving Institutions or HSIs to increase academic and program offerings to ensure continued student success. Truman has a Hispanic student population of 25% or more, qualifying it as an HSI. Leaders at Truman hope increasing support for student-focused spaces on campus will promote a sense of belonging and support.