Washington, D.C. Congressman Pete Visclosky today announced that Ivy Tech Community College in Gary is the recipient of a $250,261 grant that will help up to 600 individuals succeed in higher education. The grant is part of the federal TRIO Talent Search Program.

"This educational funding is an investment in the future of Northwest Indiana," said Congressman Visclosky. "By advancing the educational opportunities of the next generation, we are investing in an improved quality of life throughout the region."

The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to the post-secondary school of their choice. The goal of the program is to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in a post-secondary educational institution.

"Ivy Tech's goal is to offer programs that will prepare our students and community to meet the demands of the workforce and prepare them for fulfilling careers," said Ivy Tech Chancellor J. Guadalupe Valtierra. "Thanks to this grant, we will be better able to carry out our mission."

The TRIO Talent Search Program for Ivy Tech in Gary recommends 600 students for participation. Services provided by the program include academic financial, and career counseling, information on post-secondary education options, assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications, and assistance in preparing for college entrance exams.