Bay College TRIO Students Win Top Honors and Scholarships

Students who once felt hesitant to speak up in class are now winning national competitions and delivering commencement speeches, thanks to a support program transforming lives at Bay College in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The college's TRIO Student Support Services program just wrapped up a banner year. Students in the program earned two Outstanding Graduate awards, the top student employee honor, and first place at a national business competition.

Laura-Jean Bowers and Adrian Rhode received Outstanding Graduate recognition, one of Bay College's highest honors given to just one student per academic division. These awards celebrate exceptional achievement across their entire college career.

Olivia Versailles won Student Employee of the Year out of every working student at the college. Abi Rich beat fellow students to become this year's commencement speaker, addressing graduates at the May 9 ceremony.

Landon Dugree brought home national glory through Business Professionals of America. He and his team placed first in Video Production at the state level, then traveled to Nashville and won the national championship.

Five TRIO students earned competitive scholarships through the Michigan College Access Program. Destiny Lopez, Chad Drummonds, Travis Mills, Lara Ryan, and Gabrielle LeBeau traveled to Lansing to accept their awards and deliver speeches at the recognition ceremony.

Several students also shined at Bay College's Poster Symposium, where Adrian Rhode, Julie Rexford, James Maxwell, and Travis Mills received awards for their research presentations.

The Ripple Effect

TRIO serves students who are first-generation college attendees, come from low-income backgrounds, or have disabilities. The program provides academic support, mentoring, and resources to help students succeed.

Director Matt Stewart says the transformation goes beyond grades. Students arrive uncertain about their capabilities and leave as confident scholars who present research, speak to large audiences, and compete nationally.

The growth shows in simple moments too. Students who once avoided raising their hands now volunteer to lead class discussions and mentor newer TRIO participants.

All graduating TRIO students walked across the stage wearing red and white honor cords, visible symbols of their journey from uncertainty to achievement.