In this episode, we sit down with James Alford, a proud TRIO alumnus who has turned his personal educational success into a lifelong career of supporting others. Today, James serves as an Academic Advisor within the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Business, helping the next generation of students navigate their own paths to success.

James takes us through his foundational years at Northern Illinois University, where he earned a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Black Studies, followed by an M.S.Ed. in Adult and Higher Education. We dive deep into his firsthand experiences navigating higher education as a TRIO participant, how those programs shaped his trajectory, and what it’s like to pay it forward every day as an advisor in higher education.

Whether you are a current TRIO student, an alum, or an educator looking for fresh inspiration, James’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of dedicated mentorship and student support services.

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TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

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