Jerald Neely, Program Director for TRIO Student Support Services
He has more than 15 years of experience directing federally funded TRIO programs and student success initiatives.
"Under Jerald's leadership, the TRIO-SSS program will contribute to one of our most crucial commitments to Guilford students: supporting them holistically throughout their journey at the College."
Jerald Neely has been appointed Program Director for TRIO Student Support Services at Guilford College, and he is providing leadership for a project to enhance the academic success and overall well-being of 140 students from traditionally underserved groups.
Jerald, who began work at Guilford on Feb. 16, has more than 15 years of experience directing federally funded TRIO programs and student success initiatives at N.C. A&T State University, Virginia Tech and Forsyth Technical Community College.
In 2025, Guilford was awarded a five-year, federal TRIO-SSS grant totaling $1.36 million that aims to increase student retention, improve academic standing and boost graduation rates.
“We welcome Jerald to this important position at the College and are grateful for this funding that enhances the academic experience for Guilford students and helps them achieve their dreams of a college degree and fulfilling career,” says President Jean Parvin Bordewich.
Funding from the TRIO-SSS grant will strengthen a variety of student support initiatives that promote academic success through the College’s Career, Academic and Personal Exploration (CAPE), Learning & Writing Center, Accessibility Resources Center and Provost offices.
With resources provided by the grant, Guilford will strive to meet program goals by using more intensive one-on-one advising and early intervention for at-risk students, along with course and peer mentoring and tutoring.
Also, the grant will strengthen Guilford’s five-week Summer Bridge Program that has been offered since the summer of 2021, which helps incoming students transition smoothly to college life.
“I am excited to welcome Jerald to our team. Under his leadership, the TRIO-SSS program will contribute to one of our most crucial commitments to Guilford students: supporting them holistically throughout their journey at the College,” says Kathryn Shields, Associate Provost.
Program participants include limited-income students, first-generation college students and students with disabilities. The project targets explicitly those who meet federal eligibility criteria, with a focus on individuals facing particular challenges.
The Guilford team worked closely in 2024 with staff from McAllister & Quinn, a grants consulting firm based in Washington, D.C., to prepare the successful proposal for the competitive grant award.