"Finding 2024-003 – U. S. Department of Education (USDE), TRIO Programs (significant
deficiency):
Information on the federal programs – Upward Bound, FAL No. 84.047A, June 30, 2024;
Student Support Services, FAL No. 84.042A, June 30, 2024
Criteria – Federal regulations regarding program requirements. 34-CFR 645.21
Condition – Non-compliances were noted as more fully described in the context below.
Context – The College did not meet the two-thirds requirement for the Upward Bound Program.
Per federal regulations, not less than two-thirds of the College's program participants will be lowincome
individuals who are potential first-generation college students.
Cause – Administrative oversight.
Effect – The College’s participation in the Title III and TRIO Programs could be subject to USDE
sanctions as applicable.
Repeat Finding – Yes.
Auditor’s Recommendation – We recommend the College monitor participation for the program
to assure all requirements are met.
View of Responsible Officials – Prior to the start of the Upward Bound FY2024 (September
1, 2024 - August 31, 2025), there was communication between the Program Director and
her USDOE Program Officer regarding the current number of participants being served
and the number of low-income & first-generation participants (2/3 requirement) as of
August 2024. The Program Director explained that recruitment continues to be a challenge
stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic, constant changes/turnover in target school
personnel, and low student engagement. The monthly plan to increase participant
numbers was shared with and approved by the Program Officer. With this, a Continuation
Award was granted on September 5, 2024, without any reduction in funds or stipulations
to allow the Program to continue to operate and serve students. Program Staff continue to
work hard to increase the number of participants, which directly impacts the 2/3
requirement. Please note that decreased student engagement is a nationwide issue in
TRIO.