

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders, Together.
The TRIO McNair Scholars Program thrives because of a community that believes in educational equity, graduate opportunity, and the power of research to transform lives. As a federally funded program, we cannot ask individuals to engage in lobbying activities. However, there are many ways to support McNair by raising awareness, sharing accurate information, and volunteering your time and expertise. This page offers resources and opportunities to help you champion the mission and success of McNair Scholars at the University of Minnesota and beyond.
Spread Awareness
Help others understand the purpose and impact of McNair.
Every year, TRIO McNair Scholars at the University of Minnesota engage in transformative research, mentorship, and graduate school preparation. Yet many people are still unfamiliar with what McNair is or the value it brings to students, campuses, and communities. By sharing information and stories, you can help highlight the importance of programs that expand opportunity in higher education.
Explore the resources below to help spark conversations and raise visibility about the work of TRIO McNair Scholars across the country.
Downloadable Flyers and Graphics
What is McNair?
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Coming Soon: A one-page overview of the UMN TRIO McNair Scholars Program and who we serve. (PDF Download)
McNair at a Glance – UMN Impact Sheet
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Coming Soon: Fast facts about our students, research highlights, and outcomes. (PDF Download)
TRIO Programs as a Return on Investment
Impact of all TRIO Programs
Help Amplify Our Message
Find and contact your elected officials to tell them about the TRIO McNair Scholars Program. Below are email templates, provided by the Council for Opportunity in Education, that you can send as a way to advocate for the TRIO McNair Scholars Program.
Connect with Broader Advocacy Networks
For those interested in understanding the national scope of TRIO support:
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Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) – Advocacy & Awareness
Stay up to date on issues impacting TRIO programs across the country. -
First-Gen Forward / NASPA Center for First-Generation Student Success
Explore national initiatives and stories from first-gen students and programs.
Volunteer with McNair
Support our scholars directly.
There are several ways individuals can engage with McNair students throughout the year:
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Speak at a seminar or workshop
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Mentor a scholar interested in your field
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Review personal statements or research abstracts
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Support mock interviews or grad school prep
Let us know you're interested by emailing us at mcnair@umn.edu.
Stay Connected
Follow our progress and help amplify our impact.
Sign up for occasional updates or newsletters
Follow us on social media
Explore our Success Stories page to see where our alumni are now