Creighton University receives $3.2 million grant to expand college access in Omaha
For some students, the path to college begins long before they fill out an application. It can start with a conversation about what’s possible, a campus visit, help completing the FAFSA or guidance from someone who knows how to navigate the admissions process.
Creighton University is making this path more accessible for students and young adults across the Omaha area thanks to a $3.2 million TRIO Talent Search grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The Talent Search program is one of four TRIO programs at Creighton that support first-generation, low-income and underrepresented students from middle school through college, as well as adult learners.
The five-year grant will provide approximately $650,000 annually to Creighton’s Division of Student Success. Through its Talent Search program, the University will serve more than 1,300 people each year across Omaha and Douglas, Dodge and Sarpy counties, including more than 800 middle and high school students and approximately 500 young adults.
Helping Omaha students prepare for college
The program provides students with resources and guidance to help them pursue education and career opportunities. Services for middle and high school students include academic advising, career exploration, financial literacy education, campus visits, college application support and assistance completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The expanded program also will increase outreach to young adults throughout the three-county area. Participants can receive support in pursuing a GED, preparing for the workforce, earning technical certifications or enrolling in two- or four-year colleges and universities.
“Talent Search is about helping people see possibilities for themselves and then making sure they have the information and support necessary to pursue those possibilities,” says Kim Stevens, PhD, director of Creighton University’s Talent Search program.
Helping people see these possibilities is part of Creighton’s educational mission, one that extends beyond the students who already call the University home.
Stevens continues: “This funding allows us to continue serving students in our local schools while expanding our ability to reach young adults throughout the greater Omaha community who may be looking for another pathway into education, career training or college.”
Talent Search advances Creighton’s commitment to first-generation students
Creighton Talent Search has operated continuously since 1987 and is part of the University’s broader commitment to expanding access to higher education, particularly for students from underserved backgrounds and prospective first-generation college students.
The program’s work also contributes to Creighton’s national leadership in supporting first-generation students. It is the first and only Jesuit university recognized as a First-Gen Forward Network Champion institution, and one of 40 institutions nationally to receive the designation.
Education expands what people believe is possible for their lives. Creighton is helping make those possibilities accessible to people who may not otherwise have a clear path to college or career training.
Learn more about Creighton University’s TRIO Talent Search program and explore how the University’s commitment to access, service and community engagement puts its Jesuit values into action.
