Our Purpose

Minnesota TRIO (MNTRIO) supports TRIO programs and professionals across Minnesota by fostering collaboration, professional development, and advocacy that advance educational access and student success.

As a nonprofit professional association, MNTRIO supports educational access, retention, and completion for students from low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented backgrounds. Our members include professionals working in TRIO and related educational opportunity programs across the state.

Our Regional and National Affiliations

MN TRIO is one of eight chapters in the midwest that form the Educational Opportunity Association (EOA), including 10 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin.

EOA is one of 10 regional associations that form the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE). EOA and COE are non-profit organizations committed to advancing equal educational opportunity and promoting diversity in America's postsecondary institutions. Both EOA and COE keep the community informed and provide a valuable network and professional development opportunities for personnel that work in TRIO, GEAR UP, and other educational opportunity programs focused on serving the needs of disadvantaged youth and adults.

Membership Benefits:

MNTRIO membership provides opportunities for connection, growth, and leadership at the state, regional, and national levels.

• Expand your professional network by connecting with TRIO and educational opportunity professionals across Minnesota and the region

• Access professional development through conferences, workshops, webinars, and leadership training

• Save on registration costs with reduced rates for MNTRIO, EOA, and partner events

• Develop leadership skills by serving on committees, task forces, or the MNTRIO Board

• Stay informed and engaged with state and national legislative updates impacting TRIO and educational access

• Regional and national connection through automatic membership in the Educational Opportunity Association (EOA), MNTRIO’s regional professional association

Minnesot TRIO Leadership:

The Minnesota TRIO Association is led by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of elected officers, members-at-large, and appointed committee chairs.