Southeastern Community College secures $2.37 million grant renewal for student support
WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Southeastern Community College has received a five-year, $2.37 million federal grant renewal to expand its Educational Talent Search program for students in Columbus County.
The grant, effective Sept. 1, will provide $475,000 annually through 2031, according to the college.
Educational Talent Search is part of the federal TRIO programs, which help eligible students prepare for and pursue education beyond high school.
Under the renewed grant, the program will serve students in grades six through 12 at nine schools across Columbus County. Participation is expected to increase by about 16%, from 816 students to 950.
The program operates through partnerships with Columbus County Schools and Whiteville City Schools and is free to eligible students.
“Renewing the five-year grant will strengthen SCC’s Talent Search program by expanding participant access to postsecondary education and introducing skilled trades and credentials throughout Columbus County for free,” said Dr. Leslie Brown, director of Educational Talent Search.
Students will continue to have access to college visits, financial aid assistance, test preparation, literacy programs, academic advising, job-readiness training and career exploration workshops.
Grant funding will support expenses such as tutoring, transportation, meals, test-preparation materials and college visits.
The nine participating schools are Central Middle School, Columbus College and Career Academy, East Columbus Junior-Senior High School, Hallsboro-Artesia Elementary School, South Columbus High School, Tabor City Middle School, West Columbus School, West Columbus High School and Whiteville High School.
The program also plans to add workshops on financial literacy, artificial intelligence ethics and best practices, and work-based learning. Students will have opportunities to visit skilled trades sites and participate in seminars led by industry professionals.
