Political Quotes

“I rise today to introduce the Educational Opportunity and Success Act, which would reauthorize and strengthen the Federal TRIO Programs. I want to thank Senators Tester, Capito, and Baldwin for being original cosponsors. Senator Tester and I are cochairs of the Congressional TRIO Caucus. I have been a longtime champion of TRIO, which helps students get the supports they need to prepare for, succeed in, and graduate from college. Prior to my election to the Senate, I worked at Husson University in Bangor, many of whose students are the first in their families to go to college, and I saw firsthand the importance of programs like TRIO. Maine's 30 TRIO Programs serve more than 7,500 students throughout the State and are focused on increasing educational opportunities for first-generation and low-income students, as well as students with disabilities. I have been inspired by the stories of TRIO students from all across Maine and have seen how TRIO opens doors to the opportunities that come with pursuing and completing postsecondary education. For example, Myles Ouellette, who currently resides in Van Buren, ME, credits TRIO not only with helping him to complete postsecondary education but also with saving his life. Myles participated in Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search at Van Buren High School. He enlisted in the Army after high school and developed an addiction to painkillers following an injury.…”