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The U.S. Department of Education has awarded ˿����Ƶ a five-year, $2.2 million grant through the Title III Strengthening Institutions Program in order to increase retention and graduation rates and eliminate equity gaps.  

The program aims to help eligible institutions of higher education become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability.

“Higher education provides a critical foundation for a stronger future, but many low-income and first-generation students face challenges that prevent them from completing their degree,” said Congressman Brian Higgins, NY-26. “Funding from the U.S. Department of Education is a critical investment in Western New York’s students, providing a bridge to help them reach their educational goals.”

The grant will support ˿����Ƶ’s three key strategies to advance educational equity by strengthening student support, systems, and instruction. 

"Receiving this highly competitive grant is a major accomplishment for the university," said ˿����Ƶ President Gary A. Olson. "The funding will allow us to strengthen the resources and support we provide to students in order to ensure their academic success all the way through graduation."

“Title III grants provide educational institutions with the opportunity to broaden access, diversity, and equity in education,” added Dr. Michael Brogan, the executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “This grant provides the means to further invest in our students’ success, which in turn strengthens the principles of our society. We believe that the support of this grant will provide a greater foundation for an enriched learning environment where all students share the same opportunity to thrive and achieve their maximum potential.”

˿����Ƶ is one of just three colleges in the region to receive the Title III funding.