The Indiana University East Office of Student Support Services has received a $1.39 million grant from the United States Department of Education. IU East will receive $278,000 a year over the next five years under the grant.

The funding will serve 200 eligible students each year who are first-generation college students, with low income or who have disabilities.

Dawna Remencus, director of Student Support Services, said IU East will be able to better serve students through the grant.

“Funding from this grant will help us to achieve the retention and graduation objectives we have for our students. This grant will help students to stay in school and to receive their degrees,” Remencus said.

Student Support Services provides several programs for participating students including academic advising and tutoring; cultural awareness; academic, personal, and career counseling which helps students to clarify degree goals and achievement plans; and supplemental Federal Pell grants.

The office also provides a Learning Laboratory which includes writing, computer and math assistance and a study and resource center. The mentor program assists students in receiving information and assistance from faculty, staff or alumni.

Remencus said with this grant, students will have new opportunities to pursue cultural activities such as receiving tickets to attend a cultural event that they may not be able to attend otherwise. Staff will also be able to work with students on economic and financial literacy.

“We want our students to not only succeed in their classes but in life as well,” Remencus said. “By teaching financial literacy, we are preparing our students to make good financial decisions today, so that their futures are not negatively impacted by things such as  large student loans or credit card debt.”

To participate in Student Support Services programs, students complete an application in the office, located in Whitewater Hall room 116 or online at iue.edu/support. Students must meet eligibility criteria and demonstrate academic need and academic potential.

For more information, contact Student Support Services at (765) 973-8310.