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Contributing to a Safe, Secure, and Prosperous America.

Supporting first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students on their journey to graduate school through mentorship, research opportunities, and academic development.

Why TRIO McNair Scholars?

The TRIO McNair Scholars Program's mission is to prepare first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students for graduate study through research, mentorship, and professional development. Since 1991, we have empowered scholars to pursue their academic and professional goals, providing the resources and support they need to navigate the path to graduate education. 

At the TRIO McNair Scholars Program, we provide the resources, support, and opportunities students need to succeed in graduate education. Our scholars receive:

  • One-on-one mentorship from faculty experts

  • Hands-on research experience

  • Graduate school preparation workshops

  • Networking with scholars and alumni

  • Academic and financial guidance

Student Advisor Ratio

10:1

Program Completion Rate

99%

Current Graduate Students

88

Graduate Degrees Earned

438

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

The McNair Scholars Program is committed to breaking down systemic barriers that have historically limited access to graduate education for underrepresented students. Through mentorship, research opportunities, and a strong academic community, we empower scholars to build the confidence and skills necessary for success in advanced degree programs.

Our program is designed to:

  • Provide structured guidance on the graduate school application process.

  • Offer hands-on research experience to prepare scholars for rigorous academic work.

  • Connect students with faculty mentors who support their academic and professional growth.

  • Foster a community of scholars who uplift and support each other.

  • By investing in our scholars, we are investing in the future of higher education, ensuring that voices from diverse backgrounds are represented in research, academia, and beyond.

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Scholars

Meet Our Scholars

Our scholars represent a range of disciplines from social work to aerospace engineering. Learn more about how our scholars are contributing to the future of the United States.

Brianna Lundgren (2018 Scholar) and Dr. Megan Gunnar.jpg

Faculty

Learn about Faculty Mentorship

McNair Faculty Mentors are world renowned leaders in their fields. Learn more about the roles faculty mentors play in the academic journeys of McNair Scholars.

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Support

How to Support

There are many ways to support the McNair Scholars Program. Learn more about how you can be a part of helping McNair Scholars pursue graduate school.

TRIO McNair Scholars Program

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

TRIO McNair Scholars Program

40 Educational Sciences Building

56 E River Road Minneapolis, MN 55455
phone: (612)625-3021

email: mcnair@umn.edu

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© University of Minnesota TRIO McNair Scholars Program

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