UNM Educational Opportunity Center Secures Nearly $2 Million Federal TRIO Grant Renewal
September 4, 2026 - Dorene DiNaro
The University of New Mexico’s Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), a federal TRIO program housed within the College Enrichment & Outreach Programs (CEOP), has secured a five-year grant renewal from the U.S. Department of Education. The award will provide nearly $2 million from September 2026 through August 2031, and ensures continued support for individuals seeking to enter, re-enter, or continue postsecondary education throughout central New Mexico.
The grant allows EOC to continue providing free educational outreach and college access services to residents of Bernalillo, Sandoval, Socorro, Torrance, and Valencia counties. EOC serves adults and eligible youth by helping them navigate the path to higher education through personalized one-on-one assistance and workshops.
“This renewal reflects the strength of our EOC team and allows UNM to build on more than two decades of work helping New Mexicans access higher education,” said José Villar, director of College Enrichment & Outreach Programs. “With this award, EOC will expand from serving 1,000 to 1,400 participants annually, meaning hundreds more people each year will receive personalized help navigating admissions, financial aid and the transition into postsecondary education.”
Through its services, EOC helps participants understand college admissions requirements, explore local college options, complete college admissions applications, and receive general academic advising. The program also assists students with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), searching and applying for scholarships, accessing financial literacy resources, and obtaining available ACT and college application fee waivers.
“Our EOC team provides exceptional support that helps transform educational aspirations into college enrollment and student success,” said Dr. Eric Scott, vice president for Student Affairs. “I am proud of the dedication they bring to their work each day and the meaningful impact they have on expanding opportunity and advancing New Mexico.”
The grant renewal reflects EOC's long-standing commitment to expanding educational access and opportunity throughout New Mexico. Since its founding in 2002 within the Division of Student Affairs, UNM's Educational Opportunity Center has worked in partnership with community organizations to help participants build the academic foundation needed to pursue higher education and reach their full potential.
As EOC begins a new five-year funding cycle, the program remains dedicated to serving participants in a welcoming and supportive environment while advancing UNM's commitment to educational access, student success, and community engagement across New Mexico.
For more information visit the EOC website.
