On Feb. 28, Wichita State hosted National TRIO & GEAR UP Day 2025 at Woolsey Hall, celebrating the transformative impact of the federally funded programs. Betty Paugh Ortiz, vice president of programs at NCCEP, delivered a keynote on GRIT: Growth Mindset, Resilience, Impact and Transformation. Associate VP Deltha Colvin, the trailblazer of these programs, highlighted TRIO’s 60-year legacy, while Provost Monica Lounsbery emphasized the programs’ impact on student success.
The event featured interactive activities, including a scavenger hunt, a hands-on technology session and a mental health workshop led by Dr. Larry Mitnaul. Dr. Alicia Thompson reaffirmed WSU’s commitment to supporting underserved students. With nine TRIO and three GEAR UP programs serving 7,000+ students statewide, WSU remains a leader in educational access. These programs continue to provide vital support, ensuring students achieve their full potential.
For more information, visit the Office of Special Programs website.