Southeastern Talent Search program receives new grant

SE Communications

DURANT – The Southeastern Oklahoma State University Talent Search program has received a grant award of $477,641 for 2021-22 from the U.S. Department of Education. It is anticipated that the grant will be for a total of five years for more than $2 million.

Southeastern Talent Search is a federally funded TRIO College Access and Success Program sponsored by the Department of Education that prepares low-income, first generation middle and high school students to enter and experience success in higher education.

Brina Ford  has been involved with the Talent Search program for almost 22 years,  the last 3 ½ as director.

“The services provided not only by Talent Search, but by all the TRIO programs are so vital to our service area,’’ she said. “I have personally seen the dramatic impact it has been made on the lives of families for generations.’’

The Talent Search program has been continuously funded and housed at Southeastern since 1978.

The program serves 861 students (6^th – 12^th grade) from Bryan, Choctaw, Marshall and McCurtain Counties.

It is in an early intervention/education opportunity program that  promotes skills and disseminates information necessary for successfully entering college and completing a degree.  Emphasizing personal/career development, financial literacy, technological/academic skills, and ACT readiness through a developmental curriculum of college preparatory workshops, students are prepared for the rigors of higher education.  Campus visits, academic monitoring/advising, and guidance in the completion of college and financial aid applications are key components for participants and their families.  Summer enrichment and campus-based events are also hosted.