Athens, TX – Trinity Valley Community College has been awarded $1.3 million in federal funding through the Title III Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The funding marks the beginning of a five-year initiative designed to expand academic offerings, enhance instructional facilities, and strengthen workforce development opportunities. Through the initiative, TVCC plans to introduce new degree and certificate programs, improve hands-on learning environments, and better prepare students for high-demand careers throughout East Texas.
“We are excited to receive the Title III grant and the tremendous opportunities it provides for Trinity Valley Community College,” TVCC President Dr. Jason Morrison shared.
A major focus of the initiative is the development of new academic pathways designed to meet evolving workforce demands. These include Associate of Applied Science degrees in Industrial Engineering Technology and Medical Laboratory Technology, as well as Basic and Advanced Industrial Engineering Technology certificates. The grant will also support the development of a Large Animal Care and Handling certificate within TVCC’s existing Associate of Science in Ranch Management program.
In addition to expanding its academic offerings, TVCC will use grant funding to enhance instructional facilities and provide students with updated learning resources. Planned improvements include renovations to the Medical Laboratory Technology and Agriculture instructional laboratories, along with the purchase of specialized equipment to support hands-on training in Industrial Engineering Technology and Medical Laboratory Technology.
“This grant will allow us to strengthen and expand our health science and workforce programs on our campuses, providing students with enhanced training, updated learning opportunities, and stronger pathways into high-demand careers,” Dr. Morrison said. “On our Athens Campus, the grant will support the growth of one of our traditionally strong agricultural programs, helping us expand educational opportunities and prepare students for the workforce and agricultural industries that are vital to our region.”
The grant will also support the establishment of a Faculty Teaching and Learning Center, providing professional development opportunities for TVCC’s faculty. The center will focus on enhancing instructional methods, incorporating innovative teaching technologies, and equipping instructors with the tools and resources needed to better prepare students for the workforce.
Beyond the classroom, the initiative aims to strengthen partnerships with regional employers and expand opportunities for students to gain practical, hands-on experience. A new Industry Partnerships Navigator position will help connect TVCC with local businesses and industries, facilitating internships, apprenticeships, clinical placements, and employer mentoring. These efforts are designed to better connect classroom instruction with real-world applications and prepare graduates for successful transitions into the workforce.
TVCC’s grant application received a score of 115 out of 125 possible points, exceeding the federal funding cutoff of 92. The application earned full points in all applicable evaluation categories, including project design, implementation strategy, and workforce readiness.
“The SIP Title III grant will enable TVCC to better respond to evolving workforce demands and prepare our students to enter high-demand careers with the skills and knowledge needed for long-term success,” said Dr. Spencer Wagley, TVCC Vice President of Instruction. “This achievement would not have been possible without the exceptional work, dedication, and leadership of Grants Manager Ariana Spoon. We appreciate her leadership through this process.”
Through the five-year initiative, TVCC will work toward increasing student enrollment, improving retention, and expanding participation in workforce programs. By strengthening academic offerings and building connections with regional industries, the college aims to create lasting educational and economic opportunities through its service area.
“Ultimately, this funding will have a lasting impact beyond our campuses,” Dr. Morrison said. “It will help our students build the skills and credentials they need to succeed while supporting workforce development and economic growth throughout our five-county service area. We are grateful for this opportunity and excited about what it means for our students, our communities, and the future of East Texas.”