University receives $5M grant to expand college access programs in Nebraska

A man helps a female high school student with a remote-controlled robot in a classroom.

Kristen Labadie | University Communication and Marketing

Zach Short, project director for TRIO Talent Search and a graduate student in educational psychology at Nebraska, helps a Lincoln High School student during a VEX Robotics event in February 2025.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has been awarded a $5 million TRIO grant from the U.S. Department of Education to expand college access services for low-income and first-generation students across five Nebraska communities.

Through the new grant, the university will receive approximately $1 million annually over the next five years for its Talent Search programming. The number of middle and high school students served each year will increase from 950 to about 2,000. The grant will also expand the program beyond Lincoln to Grand Island, Hastings, Lexington and Winnebago.

Nebraska was selected through a highly competitive grant process that attracted more than 725 applicants nationwide. Less than 45% received funding during the initial award cycle.

The university has operated the Talent Search program in Lincoln since 1990.

“This grant allows us to continue serving students in Lincoln while expanding our impact to four new partner school districts,” said Jamil Funnah, director of TRIO Programs at Nebraska. “With this award, Talent Search is positioned to make a meaningful educational impact on the lives of thousands of Nebraska students and help them achieve their college and career goals.”

Talent Search is designed to increase the number of low-income and first-generation students who complete high school and enroll in and complete postsecondary education. The program provides participants with academic support, career exploration, financial aid guidance and college planning services. Through these efforts, Talent Search helps students prepare for success in higher education and beyond.

Learn more about TRIO Programs at Nebraska.