The College of Central Florida has been awarded a $1.6 million grant by the U.S. Department of Education to provide academic and support services to low-income, first-generation and disabled students through its Student Support Services.

The program has been grant-funded at CF since 1990.

“Student Support Services is committed to helping our students achieve their educational goals,” said Lisa Smith, program director. “By providing students with more direct and individualized services, Student Support Services increases the likelihood of their success.”

The grant will be awarded as $326,050 per year for five years. Program services include instruction in basic study skills; tutoring; academic, financial and personal counseling; assistance in securing admission and financial aid for enrollment at four-year institutions, and graduate and professional programs; guidance on career options; mentoring; and grant aid.

“Our goal as a college is to provide opportunity for every member of our community who is interested in higher education, and this grant is very important in allowing us to provide the support many students require to be successful,” said Dr. Charles Dassance, CF president.

CF serves students in Citrus, Marion and Levy counties. Student Support Services is based at the CF Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. For information about College of Central Florida, visit www.CF.edu. To learn more about applying for Student Support Services, visit http://www.cf.edu/departments/sa/sss/.