Cameron University has received a five-year grant totaling $2,088,635 from the U.S. Department of Education for CU’s Open Doors/Talent Search program. Open Doors/Talent Search serves 775 participants throughout Lawton Public Schools’ 6th through 12th grades. The grant funding period starts on September 1, 2021, allowing the university to continue its work in supporting the concept that anyone, regardless of race, ethnic background or economic circumstances, can complete a program of postsecondary education.
Open Doors/Talent Search identifies qualified high school and middle school students who have the potential to succeed in higher education. In addition to encouraging participants to graduate from high school and to complete a college degree or earn postsecondary certification, the program also serves high school dropouts by encouraging them to reenter the educational system and complete their education. The program’s goal is to increase the number of youth from underserved backgrounds who complete high school and pursue postsecondary education.
Services provided by Open Doors/Talent Search include career exploration and aptitude assessment; information on postsecondary education; exposure to university campuses; information on student financial assistance; assistance in completing university admissions and financial aid applications; and assistance in preparing for university entrance exams. Additionally, participants have access to monthly workshops, on-line and one-on-one tutoring, camps, cultural experiences and more. The program also has workshops for the families of participants.
Funding for Open Doors/Talent Search, one of the federally funded TRIO programs, is made possible under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
Community members seeking information about Open Doors/Talent Search can learn more by calling 580-581-5581 or visiting https://www.cameron.edu/opendoors.
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PR# 21-108
