Teera Wilkins has helped students prepare for college success for years. As the new project director of Grand Rapids Community College’s first TRIO Educational Opportunities Center, she’ll use her skills to help adult learners from across the region access higher education.
GRCC was awarded a five-year, $1.16 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to create the center, where unemployed or low-wage workers, prospective first-generation college students, and other adult learners can work with campus specialists to explore higher education options and connect with on- and off-campus resources and programs to support their educational goals.
The Educational Opportunities Center will connect people with programs and services that help with high school diploma or GED certificate completion, academic advising and personal counseling, tutoring and mentoring, career workshops, student financial assistance and help with completing college admission processes.
“I want to make sure everyone has access to a college education that can change their lives,” Wilkins said. “There are many resources in our greater community that can help students of all ages be successful. Many people might not be aware of the support that is available to them. Our new center will make those connections and help them start — and complete — a postsecondary credential that can lead to rewarding careers.”
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