Through a competitive grant, Cal State San Bernardino has received three of the 470 Trio Talent Search awards funded by the U.S. Department of Education, totaling $4.16 million over five years (2021-26).

 “Receiving this grant is especially exciting for CSUSB and our local community as it allows us to fortify our efforts to build a pipeline to higher education for local students,” said Paz Olivérez, vice president of Student Affairs. “Educational Talent Search has a long history in the Inland Empire and we are thrilled that their great work with schools throughout our region, under the leadership of Director Tanika Gardner and AVP Molly Springer, will continue to thrive.”

TRIO Talent Search is an educational program designed to help middle and high school students to continue to the next grade level, graduate from high school, and enroll in and complete a college education. CSUSB’s goal is to serve 1,500 students annually, 500 students in each district, 29 school sites, grades 6-12 in the San Bernardino City, Colton Joint, and Rialto Unified School District.

CSUSB’s Educational Talent Search program creates a pathway for underrepresented students to pursue higher education by encouraging academic excellence, providing support and resources, and promoting college readiness in schools and communities. CSUSB’s program offers the following services:

  • Academic, financial and career guidance, including advice on entry to college
  • Career exploration and aptitude assessment
  • Academic tutoring
  • College awareness activities
  • Exposure to college campuses and cultural events
  • Information on student financial assistance
  • Assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications
  • Assistance in preparing for college entrance exams
  • Mentoring programs
  • Educational counseling and assistance with course selection
  • Special activities for middle school students
  • Workshops for the families of participants
  • Specific programs for homeless and foster youth

Since its inception in 1964, Talent Search programs have improved educational outcomes for millions of low-income, minority and disadvantaged students across the United States. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Education Talent Search Program website.

For more information about CSUSB’s program, visit the CSUSB Educational Talent Search website.