WELCOME TO TRIO STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded TRIO program authorized by the U.S. Department of Education that provides academic and student support services for students who are the first in their families to attend college, meet federal income eligibility guidelines, and/or have documented disabilities. The program is designed to increase participant persistence from one academic year to the next and promote successful degree completion. SSS provides comprehensive support services that enhance student success, leading to graduation and preparation for graduate study and/or entry into the workforce.
Program Services
Students accepted into TRIO Student Support Services may receive access to the following services, based on individual needs and program availability:
- Academic advising and individualized support
- Tutoring and study skills assistance
- Assistance with course planning and academic goal setting
- Workshops focused on academic success, financial awareness, and personal development
- Support navigating campus resources and student services
- Graduate and professional school preparation
- Career exploration and readiness support
- Grant aid for eligible Federal Pell Grant recipients, subject to program guidelines
Eligibility
Students may be considered for participation if they:
- Meet federal citizenship or residency requirements, such as being a U.S. citizen, national, or eligible resident for federal student assistance
- Are enrolled at Jackson State University or accepted for the upcoming term
- Indicate a need for additional academic or educational support
- Meet at least one federal participation criterion listed below
Students may qualify if any of the following apply:
- First in the immediate family, meaning neither parent nor legal guardian has earned a bachelor’s degree
- Household income aligns with federal guidelines
- Documentation supports academic accommodation needs
Meet the TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) Staff
Tara N. Johnson
Executive Director of TRIO SSS
Email: tara.n.johnson@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-3755
Brittni Johnson
Teacher Prep Coordinator
Email: brittni.a.johnson@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-1608
Tonjula Scott
Premier Coordinator
Email: tonjula.r.scott@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-1049
Alexis B. Watts
Budget and Data Analyst
Email: alexis.b.watts@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-3765
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Greetings Tigers!
We are excited to invite you to join TRIO Student Support Services. This program offers academic guidance, resources, and support to help students stay on track and successfully complete their degree. Through a range of academic, personal, and financial support services, TRIO SSS is committed to promoting student achievement and success.
Participation and commitment are essential. We encourage you to take full advantage of all TRIO SSS services and opportunities available. Our team looks forward to supporting you as you work toward your goals. Graduation is within reach. Let’s get it.
Tara N. Johnson
Director
If you are a scholar in need of a community oriented program which provides wrap around support;
look no more! Student Support Services is where you want to be!
Testimonials
As I prepared to graduate from Jackson State University in May of 2025, I reflected with gratitude on the impact TRIO Student Support Services had on my college journey. TRIO became a strong support system that provided guidance, financial assistance, and encouragement. The relationships I built with staff and peers created a sense of belonging and motivation. I was and still am thankful for the support, lessons, and community TRIO SSS gave me. Its impact remains with me long after walking across that great stage.
From the moment I stepped on campus as a first generation student, TRIO Student Support Services became my safe place. I did not know anyone and was trying to figure college life out on my own, but TRIO welcomed me and made me feel like I belonged. Through academic support, tutoring when I needed it most, and financial assistance, TRIO helped me stay focused and push through challenges. The care, consistency, and encouragement from the TRIO staff made all the difference. Because of TRIO SSS, I believed in myself and succeeded at Jackson State University and beyond.
As a first generation college graduate, TRIO Student Support Services had a meaningful impact on my journey at Jackson State University. It became my place on campus, a space where I felt supported, encouraged, and confident navigating college. TRIO’s open door policy made it easy to ask questions and receive guidance when I needed it most. From help with registration, tutoring, and career and financial literacy workshops to opportunities like attending the AFROTech Conference and cultural experiences, the support was consistent and practical. More than anything, TRIO felt like family, and its impact continues beyond graduation.
My time as a TRIO student was impactful during my undergraduate experience. Through the program, I participated in conferences, career development classes, leadership opportunities, and much more. Being a part of the STEM division within the program, I was able to build long lasting connections with my coordinator, support staff, and peers. Being a TRIO student meant having a village I could confide in and turn to for support, not only in professional settings but also in personal matters. TRIO truly became a home away from home.
