An Enduring, 45-year History

Horizons Student Support Services is a federally funded program and part of numerous TRIO programs across the country which contribute to the mission of President Lyndon B. Johnson's legislative War on Poverty. In his attempt to relieve the economic state of the country, President Johnson established The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, which was initiated to address serious social and cultural barriers to education in America. The TRIO programs were originally established by the federal government in 1965 to ensure equal educational opportunity for all Americans, regardless of race, ethnic background, or economic circumstances. The Higher Education Amendments of 1968 led to the emergence of Student Support Services.  Horizons Student Support Services has served Purdue University for over 40 years, providing guidance and support to the students of TRIO since 1978.

About TRIO Programs

Horizons Student Support Services is a proud member of the national organization of TRIO programs. The United States Department of Education has desigated The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) as Federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to postbaccalaureate programs. TRIO also includes a training program for directors and staff of TRIO projects.

Horizons Student Support Services seeks to carry out the mission of TRIO by supporting underprivileged students at Purdue University. We provide our students access to the resources they need to succeed, and strive to build their personal, professional, and developmental leadership skills through high-quality, specialized, and holistic services.

For more information on TRIO Programs, please visit the U.S. Department of Education TRIO website.