Center for Scholar Development

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TRIO staff group photo
What We Do

Creating educational pathways in an affirming environment for first generation scholars in their pursuit of post-secondary success.

Contact Information
Office Hours

8:30 am–4:30 pm

Social Media

The Center for Scholar Development encompasses four key programs to support the academic and personal development of Rhode Island College students. 

TRIO Program

Federal TRIO Programs

The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) in the Center for Scholar Development are designed to provide educational pathways in an affirming environment for first generation scholars. The federally funded TRIO program encompasses Upward Bound, McNair Scholars, Preparatory Enrollment Program (PEP) and Student Support Services (SSS) Regular and SSS STEM. For more information visit the U.S. Department of Education. 

Explore Center for Scholar Development

Center for Scholar Development Team

Precious Kafo

  • Project Director II
  • Preparatory Enrollment Program

Utilize these Support Services

McNair Scholar Alumni

McNair Scholars

Supporting the enrollment of first-generation and high achieving undergraduates who demonstrate financial need, or who traditionally identify in underrepresented populations into a doctoral program. 

PEP Students

Preparatory Enrollment Program (PEP)

We are here to support the academic and personal development of first-generation college students, where we provide academic coaching, personalized advising, a summer transition program and a growing community of peer support and leadership opportunities. We welcome high school graduates who reside in Rhode Island and identify as first-generation to apply to this program. 

SSS Students

Student Support Services (SSS)

Our main goal is to get students to reach the most important milestone in college, graduation. We encourage you to have a positive experience at RIC by providing enough support for students to feel confident in their ability as a scholar, and courageous enough to succeed no matter the obstacle faced. If you are interested in taking that risk, join SSS.

UB students

Upward Bound

The Upward Bound Program services low-income, first-generation college bound scholars in the pursuit of high school graduation and post-secondary completion. We provide holistic approaches to intellectual, motivational, and character development for every student.