In February, Cleveland State Community College in Cleveland, Tennessee, welcomed over 100 attendees for their Parent Night event. The evening brought together high school students in grades 10 through 12, parents, community members, and local partners to explore the next steps in preparing for higher education. Representing ERO and the Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), Educational Specialist Darlene White delivered a highly informative presentation on Paying for College. With clarity and compassion, Darlene White guided students and their families through the often-overwhelming process of understanding college costs, financial aid options, and resources available to help make college affordable.
The session is part of the EOC’s ongoing mission to increase access to postsecondary education for first-generation and income-eligible students. The presentation equipped families with the tools to navigate FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and other financial aid avenues with confidence. With 102 individuals in attendance, the event was a clear success and a strong example of how TRiO programs like EOC continue to make a lasting impact in our communities.
The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), part of Education Research & Opportunity (ERO) Center here at University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is one of five federal TRiO programs. EOC provides free services to adults and high school seniors who want to enter or return to college. Through academic advising, career counseling, financial aid assistance, and college admissions support, EOC helps participants navigate the college-going process and achieve their educational goals.

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Darlene White, Educational Specialist

Educational Opportunity Center