Three participants in TRiO Student Support Services at the University of Missouri were recently recognized for their success. Nahomi Gonzalez, Jacob Phillips and Lindsey Roberts each received awards from the Educational Opportunity Association (EOA), a non-profit consortium that supports first-generation, low-income, disabled and other underrepresented students.
Nahomi Gonzalez
Nahomi Gonzalez, B.A. ’23, from Kansas City, Missouri, studied biological sciences at Mizzou. They received the Rising Achievers Scholarship through the MKN chapter of the EOA.
Gonzalez says that TRiO has greatly contributed to their educational journey by providing guidance, mentorship, and a welcoming community.
“My time with this program has nurtured my passion for scholar-activism, fueled by the inspiring dedication of the staff to their students,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez plans to pursue a doctorate to become a researcher dedicated to exploring the intricate dynamics of abolitionist frameworks for collective action within social work.
Jacob Phillips
Jacob Phillips is a junior from Poplar Bluff, Missouri, studying social work. He was awarded the 2024 Board of Directors Scholarship through the Missouri-Kansas-Nebraska (MKN) chapter of the EOA.
Phillips said he appreciates the broad range of support that TRiO provides.
“TRiO means a lot to me,” Phillips said. “They provide opportunities that support me as a first-generation student, including workshops, career development and academic support.”
Following graduation, Phillips plans to attend graduate school to earn his master’s in social work.
Lindsey Roberts
Lindsey Roberts is a senior from St. Joseph, Missouri, studying biomedical engineering on the biomechanics track. She received the 2024 EOA Veterans Scholarship.
Roberts spent two years active duty in the Air Force and relocated to Columbia following the pandemic. TRiO offered her the tools she needed to succeed and connect with other students.
The TRiO staff’s belief in her has left a lasting impact on her journey.
“TRiO means community, guidance and the confidence to succeed,” Roberts said. “I am deeply grateful for their role in my academic and personal growth.”
After Roberts graduates in the spring of 2025, she plans to pursue a career in medical equipment sales or design.