Published October 23, 2025
MONROE, La. – The University of Louisiana Monroe houses three TRIO programs, which are federally funded programs designed to assist first-generation and income-eligible students in reaching their full academic potential.
The TRIO programs host a variety of events for students that enhance their college experience
and help them build strong on-campus connections. These are a few of the recent events
facilitated by ULM TRIO programs.
Bowling into a Bright Future: ULM TRIO SSS Mentor/Mentee Kickoff Event
The University of Louisiana Monroe’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) launched
its 2025–2026 academic year with a lively Mentor/Mentee Bowling event held on Friday,
September 19, at Bayou Bowl in Monroe. The afternoon brought together dozens of students
for an energizing day of strikes, spares, and meaningful connections.
Designed to foster early rapport between mentors and mentees, the event offered a
relaxed and fun atmosphere where students could mingle, bond, and build the foundation
for a successful year ahead. Through friendly competition and shared laughter, participants
deepened their understanding of one another, paving the way for smoother communication
and stronger support throughout the semester.
“This event is more than just bowling—it’s about building trust and community,” said
Tammy Anderson, MPA, Associate Director of On-Campus TRIO Programs. “When students
feel connected, they’re more likely to thrive academically and personally. We’re proud
to see our mentors and mentees already forming those essential relationships.”
The TRIO SSS program at ULM provides academic support, mentoring, and resources to
help first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities succeed in college.
Events like the Mentor/Mentee Bowling Night are part of a broader effort to create
inclusive, empowering spaces where students can grow together.
As the pins fell and friendships formed, the energy at Bayou Bowl set the tone for
a year of collaboration, encouragement, and achievement.
ULM TRIO CCAMPIS Hosts Annual Parent Event at Curry’s Farm Pumpkin Patch
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the University of Louisiana Monroe’s TRIO Child Care
Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program hosted its annual Parent Event at
Curry Farms Pumpkin Patch in Start, La. The event brought together student-parents,
their children, and extended families for a day of seasonal fun, connection, and community
building.
Now a cherished tradition, the Parent Event at Curry’s Farm offers ULM student-parents
a chance to step away from academic demands and spend quality time with their children
in a joyful, nature-filled setting. Families explored the pumpkin patch, played games,
and shared laughter with friends from school and the broader community.
“This event is such a special opportunity for us,” said one student-parent. “My daughter
was able to practice her social and gross motor skills while playing with her school
friends. It’s a great way to connect with other families and build lasting memories.”
Anthony Bartley, College Transitional Coordinator for TRIO Programs, reflected on
the deeper impact of the event: “While there has been much anxiety recently over grant
funding, these events help to remind us why we do this. Seeing the impact of the services
we provide and knowing that they can change lives is extremely rewarding. I’m so proud
to be a part of this program.”
Tammy Anderson, MPA, Associate Director for On-Campus TRIO Programs, added: “Each
year, we see a growing number of student-parents, along with their families and friends,
participating in the event at Curry’s Farm. It is incredibly rewarding to witness
parents and children spending meaningful time together while connecting with fellow
CCAMPIS participants and other families in the community. These gatherings offer students
and their children a valuable opportunity to unwind and prioritize family time, away
from the demands of academics and daily responsibilities. I am deeply grateful to
the U.S. Department of Education for its continued support, which allows us to offer
enriching experiences like this to ULM’s student-parent community.”
The CCAMPIS program continues to support student-parents by creating spaces that foster
family engagement, child development, and peer support. Events like this highlight
the program’s commitment to holistic student success—both inside and outside the classroom.
For more information about ULM TRIO CCAMPIS and upcoming events, contact the ULM TRIO
Office located in Sandel Hall, Suite 351, or call 318-342-1097 or email Anthony Bartley,
bartley@ulm.edu, or Tammy Anderson, taanderson@ulm.edu.
