THERE’S no doubt —
TRiO Works!
What is TRiO’s Upward Bound?
TRiO is a federally funded program designed to support first-generation college students, low-income individuals, and students with disabilities. Its goal is to increase access to higher education, promote student retention, and improve graduation rates. TRiO provides academic support, mentoring, career guidance, and personal development resources tailored to the unique needs of students who are the first in their families to attend college. This is the story of Trident Technical College’s Upward Bound for Math and Science.
No risk, no reward
Through TRiO, students learn how to stay on top of classes, manage their time, apply for college, develop social-emotional skills, and build a plan that actually fits their future. This experience is not all lectures and paperwork—there are summer programs where students can earn college credit, take relevant and challenging courses, and visit real campuses to see what college life is really like.
There are also chances to explore new places, meet people with similar goals, and work on projects that make a difference in the community. TRiO is about growing in every way—not just in school, but in confidence, leadership, and vision for the future.
It’s more than just a program—it’s a support system, a space to dream big, and a push in the right direction.
Key Highlights
TRiO continues to prove just how life-changing opportunity and support can be. This year, one of our very own students earned the prestigious Gates Scholarship—an incredible full-ride award that reflects both hard work and the power of access.
TRiO students also had the chance to travel to Washington, D.C., where they visited national monuments and historic landmarks, turning history lessons into real-life experiences. While there, students immersed themselves in the culture—riding the MARTA, walking the city streets, and navigating new spaces with trusted adult mentors guiding and supporting them.
our story continues
Our students tour college campuses throughout the year, learning about different majors, student life, and what each school could offer them. These visits opened eyes and built real excitement for the future. To celebrate the achievements of our seniors, TRiO hosted a special college signing day and evening banquet—an unforgettable moment where students were recognized for their hard work and proudly announced where they’ll be heading next.
Each of these experiences showed what TRiO is all about: creating pathways, building confidence, and showing students what’s possible with the right support. From scholarships to travel, mentorship to milestones, this year proved that when students are given access, they rise.
What do we produce?
Leaders — fuel to the fire
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Antonio Robinson
Director
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
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LaKiesha Brown
DESIGN DIRECTOR
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
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Leonard Montgomery
SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
Academic calendar
May 2025
Senior Night
Trident Technical College
June 2025
Academic Summer
Trident Technical College
TRiO also builds a strong academic culture where students dive into real-world learning—gaining skills in AI, coding, prompt engineering, and SQL data language that connect directly to today’s tech-driven world. Students don’t just learn concepts—they apply them in hands-on ways that prepare them for college and future careers. The summer component keeps learning relevant and engaging, blending academics with cultural enrichment like line dancing and team-building that foster connection and community.
The trip to Washington, D.C. held special purpose this year. As conversations around potential funding cuts grow louder, students saw firsthand why TRiO matters—because it works! It produces driven, talented students who are already making a difference in their communities and will one day lead them. Many graduates return to TRiO to mentor others, proving that this program doesn’t just create success—it creates leaders who give back. Here are their stories:
June 2025
Summer Enrichment Trip
Washington, DC
Year In Review — Upward Bound Math & Science
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Washington, DC
Director
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
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![]()
LaKiesha Brown
DESIGN DIRECTOR
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
-
![]()
Leonard Montgomery
SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”
Kamari Fayall
Federal Govt. | Charleston, SC
Native of Alvin, SC
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”
Ra’Shawn Howell
Federal Govt. | Washington, SC
Native of Cross, SC
Howard University
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”
Trevor Prioleau
Federal Govt. | Washington, SC
Native of Cross, SC
Connect With TRiO.
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