“If no one cared, TRiO SSS cared. I joined TRIO Spring 2021, during my junior year and I am grateful that I was allowed the opportunity. TRIO blessed me with the opportunity to be a TRIO Peer Mentor and Tutor for my remaining time at JSU, which ultimately allowed me to be able to support myself financially and enhance my communication and social skills. TRIO SSS is a great program that open doors to very beneficial self-help workshops, scholarships and networking opportunities.”
Class of Fall 2021
Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded TRiO program authorized by the U.S. Department of Education which provides support for first generation, income-restricted, and/or disabled scholars in an effort to increase participants’ persistence from one year to the next. SSS ultimately aims to provide a holistic and supportive environment designed to enhance student success resulting in graduation and aspirations to attend graduate school and/or obtain a career.
“If you are looking for a group of people to keep you on task, TRIO Student Support Services is just that! The staff ensure you meet with academic advisors and Financial Aid advisors to be proactive in planning for the upcoming semesters; provide academic support and a host of career and professional development opportunities…the TRIO SSS staff does it all. They “apply pressure” every step of the way while also being there to guide and assist you through graduation.”
Senior, Spring 2022
Tara N. Johnson
Executive Director of TRIO SSS Program
Email: tara.n.johnson@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-3755
Danielle Clay
Teacher Prep Coordinator
Email: danielle.n.clay@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-1608
Tonjula Scott
Premier Coordinator
Email: tonjula.r.scott@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-1049
Alexis B. Watts
Budget Analyst
Email: alexis.b.watts@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-3765
Alexis Austin
STEM Coordinator
Email: alexis.d.austin@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-1054
Michelle Wilder
Administrative/Data Coordinator
Email: michelle.a.wilder@jsums.edu
Office: (601) 979-5023
“I have been a part of TRIO Student Support Services since my freshman year. This program has had a
major impact on my college journey. They have given me tools necessary to promote myself and be
successful in life. I have most benefited from the provided services, such as, financial assistance,
resume building, and just having a good “support system” while being away from home..”
Sophomore, Spring 2021
Greetings Tigers!
We are excited to invite you to join TRiO Student Support Services (SSS)! This program is designed to provide support for first-generation, income-restricted and/or disabled scholars in an effort to increase retention, persistence and graduation rates. SSS is committed to providing a strong foundation that will promote student achievement and success through a network of academic, social, and financial support. The mission is to provide quality, innovative, yet instructional programs and services to enhance student academic performance.
Participation and commitment is essential. We encourage you to take advantage of all TRiO SSS services and opportunities for growth and development. The TRiO SSS staff looks forward to providing the necessary support to transform your dreams into a reality. GRADUATION is just a commitment away! Let’s get it.
Tara N. Johnson
Director
If you are a scholar in need of a community oriented program which provides wrap around support;
look no more! Student Support Services is where you want to be!
“Trio Student Support Services has been a tremendous support for me as a freshman. I have received
constant tutoring and assistance with assignments in several courses I was struggling in, such as, History
and Composition. The staff and services provided have shown to be a great asset to me regarding
academic support, staying on course, financial literacy and awareness of scholarships. The staff is
reliable, friendly, and funny! My experience with TRIO SSS has been great but most importantly they
will treat you like family and greet you with open arms.”
Freshman, Spring 2021