WKU News

Western Kentucky University proudly announces that the U.S. Department of Education has renewed funding for the Student Support Services – Disability (SSS-D) Program through the federal TRIO initiative for another five years. This renewal secures ongoing support for WKU students with disabilities, ensuring continued access to the resources and opportunities needed to achieve academic, personal, and professional success.

Since its establishment in 2020, SSS-D has been a cornerstone of WKU’s commitment to student achievement. Over the past five years, the program has supported hundreds of students with documented disabilities, helping 77 students achieve their goal of graduation. By providing individualized services, SSS-D continues to improve retention and graduation rates for WKU students with disabilities. The program offers comprehensive services including academic support, college and career readiness, financial literacy and scholarships, student wellness, and cultural and leadership opportunities.

“This renewal reaffirms our commitment to empowering students with disabilities to thrive academically and personally,” said Jimmie Martin, Director of SSS-D. “With this funding, we can continue breaking down barriers to higher education and providing the resources our students need to graduate and pursue meaningful careers.”

SSS-D students emphasize the impact the program has had on their personal and academic success. Katie Eversole, SSS-D Student and President of the Student Accessibility Ambassadors, shared: “I love the SSS-D because I feel seen and validated in my experiences as a college student with disabilities. SSS-D not only provides me with resources and coaching to pursue my degree despite my disabilities, but it also helps me become a better person and be the best me I can be.”

WKU’s involvement with federally funded TRIO programs began in the 1970s, following the passage of the Higher Education Act of 1965. These programs were created to support first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students. Today, WKU proudly houses eight TRIO programs, including Student Support Services, Upward Bound, Talent Search, and Educational Opportunity Centers, each designed to help students succeed at different stages of their academic journey.

The launch of the SSS-D program in 2020 made WKU one of the first universities in Kentucky to host a TRIO program tailored specifically for students with disabilities. Since then, SSS-D has grown into a vital resource for students, offering guidance, tools, and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. 

For more information about WKU Student Support Services – Disability and its programs, visit www.wku.edu/sssd or contact:

Jimmie Martin, Project Director WKU Student Support Services – Disability 

Phone: (270) 745-5175

Email: sssd@wku.edu