Dear TRIO Friends,

I am delighted and privileged to lead the University of Southern California (USC) TRIO Programs. Currently, 21 dedicated full-time and over 20 part-time employees implement six TRIO programs, providing academic support to over 2,400 Central, South Central, South East and South Los Angeles students each year. Our primarily goal is to provide middle and high students the academic tools and cultural opportunities they require to (1) excel in high school; (2) enter college, and (3) be successful in higher education.

The first TRIO programs were instituted at USC in 1977 with a federal grant. Responding to the academic and social needs of communities surrounding USC, the USC TRIO programs have grown – in 1991 adding Educational Talent Search, an early college awareness program for students, grades 6-12, and then the Upward Bound Math/Science program to assist students prepare for math and science majors at the collegiate level. The rigorous academic level, intensive tutorial and advisement, summer academic residency, and Saturday academies components have produced remarkable results, receiving national and international recognition.

We are enriched and thankful by the strength of our partnerships, alumni network, and donors. The program objectives and educational expectations are met due to the hard work and synergy created by our partners, including the US Department of Education, Los Angeles Trade Tech College, Los Angeles Unified School District, the Educational Consortium of Central Los Angeles, parochial and private schools, and USC Government and Community Relations programs and staff. It is breathtaking to witness former USC TRIO students coming back to volunteer their time or resources to the new generation, making real the concept of paying forward a reality. And we are certainly appreciative to our donors, whose monetary support allows us to go the extra mile.

Thank you to our staff, partners, alumni, and donors for your continued commitment and support!

Dr. Juan C. Araque