Colby Community College has received a $1.15 million federal grant to continue the Student Support Services (SSS) program for another five years. CCC was one of 938 higher education institutions the Department of Education funded out of nearly 1,700 applications.

Beginning Sept. 1, CCC will receive $229,107 each year for five consecutive years. The grant is aimed at helping increase retention and graduation rates among low-income college students, first-generation students and those with disabilities.

“The Student Support Services team was diligent in planning and preparation for the grant proposal, and their work and commitment is admirable,” said Dr. George McNulty, Vice President of Student Affairs. 

 The SSS Program provides students with academic tutoring, assistance in course selection, information about financial aid and economic literacy, and resources to help students transfer from two-year to four-year colleges. Additional services that may be offered include individualized counseling and career guidance, exposure to cultural events, and mentoring.

The grant will fund SSS through August of 2020. Colby Community College first received the SSS grant in 1990, and has been renewed every five years since.

“This is a significant day for our students, staff and the college,” McNulty said.