Trahan Announces Over $2 Million in Federal Funding for Local Community Colleges

Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) announced $2,023,573 in new federal funding for three community colleges across the Third District. The money comes from three U.S. Department of Education programs that help first-generation, low-income, and nontraditional students get to college, stay enrolled, and graduate. “For so many students, community college is where a bigger future begins. It's the first person in a family to earn a degree, the parent going back to school, the worker learning a new trade. This funding helps more of them finish what they started,” said Congresswoman Trahan . “I'll always fight for federal investments in our schools and community colleges, because every degree earned here changes a family's story for good.” The institutions receiving federal funding include: Mount Wachusett Community College: $1,158,572 Northern Essex Community College: $453,065 Middlesex Community College: $411,936 Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) was awarded a total of $1,158,572 from three different federal programs. Specifically, the school received $468,572 through the Student Support Services Program to provide opportunities for academic development, assist students with basic college requirements, and motivate students toward successful completion of their postsecondary education. It also received $410,000 from the Talent Search Program, which provides grants to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in and complete their postsecondary education. MWCC was also awarded $280,000 through the Educational Opportunity Centers Program to increase the number of adult participants who enroll in postsecondary education. “TRIO Student Support Services has been an important part of Mount Wachusett Community College for nearly five decades, providing students with the guidance, resources, and encouragement they need to reach their goals,” said Mount Wachusett Community College President James Vander Hooven . “This continued federal investment allows us to build on that legacy, helping more students overcome barriers, complete their education, and create new opportunities for themselves and their families. We are thankful for Congresswoman Trahan's continued partnership and advocacy.” Northern Essex Community College (NECC) was awarded $453,065 through the Student Support Services Program, which the school plans to use to support its PACE program, which helps students develop three skills necessary to complete their degrees, succeed in the workforce, or transfer to a four-year institution to complete their bachelor’s degree. Founded in 1980, NECC’s PACE program serves more than 250 students annually. “NECC’s PACE program has supported thousands of Merrimack Valley students over the past 40 years,” said Northern Essex Community College President Lane Glenn . “We know funding like this can’t always be guaranteed, and so are grateful for Congresswoman Trahan’s advocacy for our region’s students.” Middlesex Community College was awarded $411,936 through the Talent Search Program. This grant continues the institution’s Talent Search Program work with Lowell Public School students at Lowell High School and two middle schools, a partnership dating back to 1989. The new five-year grant will allow the program to serve 824 LPS students annually. “Thank you to the U.S. Department of Education for its generous funding of our TRIO Talent Search Program,” said Middlesex Community College president Phil Sisson . “At MCC, we meet learners of all ages where they are, including students who take our classes at their high schools. Combined with our strong partnerships with local schools and organizations, this funding strengthens our ability to guide students on their paths from high school to MCC to the student’s transfer institution to successful and stable jobs in the workforce. As Congresswoman Trahan is acutely aware, in our program, students who would not otherwise have the opportunity will gain access to robust and comprehensive resources, support systems, and education that will help them reach their goals and improve their lives.” Since taking office in 2019, Trahan has been a fierce advocate for community colleges, vocational schools, and workforce development in the region. As the only Massachusetts member of Congress serving on the House Education and Labor Committee during the 116th Congress, she helped craft the College Affordability Act to crack down on predatory for-profit colleges and ensure students can spend less while earning a meaningful degree. In December 2025, the House Education and the Workforce Committee passed Trahan’s bipartisan Student Financial Clarity Act to help students and parents seeking higher education understand the true cost of their degree program. ###