SHSU Awarded $958,101 in Grants to Expand Academic Care and Resilience Initiative

SHSU Awarded $958,101 in Grants to Expand Academic Care and Resilience Initiative

Sam Houston State University’s Academic Success Center has been awarded grants totaling $958,101 from the Greater Texas Foundation and the Trellis Foundation. The funding comes in support of the Academic Care and Resiliency initiative, which supports the expansion of comprehensive wraparound services for postsecondary success. This holistic approach addresses critical barriers for first-generation and low socioeconomic students by teaching resiliency skills at key transition points.

The grants will enhance SHSU’s wraparound support model by expanding proactive academic coaching and structured re-entry support for students who experience academic disruption. Through early intervention, personalized guidance and coordinated campus resources, the initiative aims to improve student persistence, retention and long-term academic success.

“At the Academic Success Center, we meet students where they are in their learning journey and empower them to succeed,” said Austin Dixon, director of academic outreach and recovery. “Through virtual and in-person tutoring, along with a learning coach focused on study preparation, accountability and time management, we provide the tools and support students need to reach their goals.”

With support from the Greater Texas Foundation and the Trellis Foundation, the Academic Success Center aims to increase capacity for individualized coaching, develop targeted outreach for students and provide intentional re-engagement strategies for students returning after academic setbacks. 

“By connecting early and reaching out to those returning, SHSU is turning the promise of a college degree into a reality,” said Sue McMillin, president and CEO of Greater Texas Foundation. “Greater Texas Foundation is excited to partner with SHSU as they ensure every Texas student has the support that they need to persist and complete their college journey.”

First-generation and low-income students often face systemic barriers that extend beyond the classroom. Included in the grants are support for basic needs, technology and success kits. By investing in proactive advising, holistic support and resilience-building strategies, SHSU is reinforcing its commitment to student-centered success and outcomes.

Greater Texas Foundation is a private foundation based in Bryan, Texas, that supports efforts to ensure all Texas students are prepared for, have access to, persist in and complete a postsecondary education. Since its 2001 inception, the foundation has approved more than $150 million in grants to support Texas students. For more information, visit https://www.greatertexasfoundation.org/  

Trellis Foundation advances equitable educational opportunities in Texas by supporting postsecondary programs, practices and systems that reduce disparities and lead to success for low-income students and students of color.