{"id":1815,"date":"2023-08-09T09:31:44","date_gmt":"2023-08-09T09:31:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/ero\/academic-enrichment-upward-bound-copy\/"},"modified":"2026-03-25T09:31:26","modified_gmt":"2026-03-25T13:31:26","slug":"educational-opportunity-center","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/educational-opportunity-center\/","title":{"rendered":"Educational Opportunity Center (EOC)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"home-banner wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-5fc3b2\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"video wp-block-image alignfull size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/eoc-billboard-full2-1024x585.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/eoc-billboard-full2-1024x585.webp 1024w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/eoc-billboard-full2-300x171.webp 300w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/eoc-billboard-full2-768x439.webp 768w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/eoc-billboard-full2-1536x878.webp 1536w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/eoc-billboard-full2-2048x1171.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"banner-text wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-615acf\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw rw--1 rw-lvl-1 rw-lvl-1--1 wp-block-columns alignwide eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-98a214\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw-lvl-2 rw-lvl-2--1 wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-21218f\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"subheading wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Educational Opportunity<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"heading wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Center (EOC)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"rich-text eplus-wrapper\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--2 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"sc sc--college wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-6637fc\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw rw--1 wp-block-columns alignwide are-vertically-aligned-center eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-936a55\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow eplus-styles-uid-9cb7be\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\" wp-block-spacer eplus-wrapper\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Mission Statement<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image \">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-large is-resized eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"355\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/RTdgF3wI-1024x355.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1892\" style=\"width:512px;height:178px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/RTdgF3wI-1024x355.png 1024w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/RTdgF3wI-300x104.png 300w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/RTdgF3wI-768x266.png 768w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/RTdgF3wI-1536x532.png 1536w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/RTdgF3wI-2048x710.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"rich-text eplus-wrapper\" style=\"font-size:19px\">The Educational Opportunity Center provides comprehensive support for adult learners that includes career and academic counseling, post-secondary application assistance, and support for completing the financial aid process. We meet students where they are and promote their individual education goals by helping them understand and navigate the landscape of higher education. The mission of the Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is to increase the number of adult participants who enroll in postsecondary education institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Vision Statement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"rich-text eplus-wrapper\" style=\"font-size:19px\">Our vision at EOC is to create a thriving community of service providers, fostering empowerment for adult learners from all walks of life. We envision a future where we seamlessly meet our participants where they need us most, whether it&#8217;s in high schools, AJC centers, transitional housing, or other community settings. Together, we are committed to making a lasting impact, equipping our participants with the necessary tools, resources, and unwavering support to fulfill their educational aspirations and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Program History, Background, and Evolution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The Educational Opportunity Center at the University of Tennessee has been dedicated to supporting college-going adults in our community since 1991. It all began when Dr. Ernest Brewer authored the original TRIO grant, which received approval from the Department of Education, setting the foundation for our impactful work. Dr. Brewer&#8217;s commitment and leadership as the Center Director spanned over two decades, shaping the success of our center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Continuing this legacy of excellence, Vee McGahey served as the Project Director for EOC for an impressive 28 years. Under her guidance, our center flourished, consistently securing the federal TRIO grant every five years, a testament to the unwavering quality of our programs and services. Today, we are proud to have Stephanie Langley as our esteemed Project Director, leading the charge to empower individuals in their pursuit of higher education. With Stephanie&#8217;s visionary leadership and dedication, we are poised to continue making a lasting impact on the lives of our participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Since 1991, EOC has proudly served 50,000 participants, with an impressive enrollment rate of at least 70% in post-secondary education. Our influence extends across 27 counties in three states: North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">At EOC, our dedicated staff members are committed to meeting participants wherever they are on their educational journey. You&#8217;ll find our team working tirelessly in a diverse range of settings, including American Job Centers, Community Colleges, Technical Schools, High Schools, prisons, transitional housing, and women&#8217;s centers. We believe in leaving no stone unturned when it comes to providing support and guidance to adults aspiring to earn a degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Central to our success are the deep-rooted partnerships we have fostered within the community. Whether collaborating with the Cherokee Higher Education Center in Swain County, NC, Blue Ridge Community College in GA, or the United Way in Knoxville, we serve as trusted allies to our community partners. Our program staff&#8217;s wealth of knowledge and expertise in financial aid processes and higher education options is highly respected among colleagues and participants alike. As a result, we are consistently sought after to assist Community Colleges, Technical Schools, and other institutions in supporting students who face unique barriers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Join us as we continue to build bridges and break barriers, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their educational dreams. At EOC, we are proud advocates for higher education, offering unwavering support and expertise to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"fancylink is-style-outline wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-25 eplus-wrapper is-style-outline--1 eplus-styles-uid-948e27\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-medium-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/outreach-program-interest-form\/\" style=\"border-radius:5px\">Join Our Program<\/a><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"fancylink is-style-outline wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-25 eplus-wrapper is-style-outline--2 eplus-styles-uid-40175d\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-medium-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/EOC-Rack-Card.pdf\" style=\"border-radius:5px\">Download our Brochure<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\" wp-block-cover alignfull is-light has-parallax eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-1844 has-parallax\" style=\"background-position:50% 50%;background-image:url(https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/ero-full.webp)\"><\/div><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-0 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\" has-text-align-center has-large-font-size eplus-wrapper\"><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"sc sc--mis-vis wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-895fa3\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns alignwide eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-ddd39c\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-2 wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-d1d239\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:uppercase\">STUDENTS WE SERVE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The EOC program has a large and diverse service area. Our work focuses on the folks of Central Appalachia and includes 15 counties in East Tennessee, 6 counties in Western North Carolina and 6 counties in North Georgia. The largest metropolitan area, Knoxville, TN (Knox County) has pockets of high poverty, and the other 26 counties are mainly in rural, low-income Appalachian Mountains and the Cumberland Plateau.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">All 27 counties in our service area fall below the national per capita income levels, with multiple counties falling from 20-30% below. With the per capita income in several counties among the lowest in the nation and with education attainment very low, participants face various barriers to career pathways that could lead to higher wages. There is a general lack of knowledge about financial support for college and with a high population of potential first-generation students there is an extreme knowledge gap about the types of degrees available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Rough terrain, limited transportation systems, few towns, and even fewer cities define the rural, low-income service areas. Many residents live in extreme isolation with limited access to educational, financial, and academic assistance. Through community-based efforts, EOC project staff bring information about career and educational opportunities, admissions, financial aid, and economic literacy to communities and individuals with the greatest need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-table eplus-wrapper\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Tennessee<\/strong><\/td><td>Anderson, Bradley, Blount, Campbell, Cumberland, Knox, Loudon, McMinn, Meigs, Morgan, Rhea, Roane, Scott, Sevier, Union<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Georgia<\/strong><\/td><td>Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Rabun, Towns, Union<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>North Carolina<\/strong><\/td><td>Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon, Swain<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"sc sc--res-out wp-block-columns has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-5c5b7f\" style=\"background-color:#e8ebed\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-29a42d\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:uppercase\">PROGRAM SERVICES<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-f28744\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:45%\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-2 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-8a9b5d\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column has-white-background-color has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/career-counseling.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/career-counseling.webp 1024w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/career-counseling-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/career-counseling-768x432.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-3 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-bdce47\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:capitalize\">Career Counseling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">EOC staff work with individuals to bridge the knowledge gap between the careers our participants desire and the certificates\/diplomas needed to obtain those positions. Staff remain updated on current career trends and state forecastsand how those ties into the landscape of post-secondary opportunities in the region. EOC staff work closely with our community partners to build a network of resources around local career training opportunities. Additionally, EOC staff conducts career assessment and counsels on results. Taking a comprehensive approach to career counseling allows us to help our participants who may have had limited exposure to the robust opportunities available to them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:45%\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-2 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-bf541f\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column has-white-background-color has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2016\" height=\"1134\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Full-Circle-min-edited.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2638\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Full-Circle-min-edited.jpeg 2016w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Full-Circle-min-edited-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Full-Circle-min-edited-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Full-Circle-min-edited-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Full-Circle-min-edited-1536x864.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2016px) 100vw, 2016px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-3 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-79ff5a\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:capitalize\">Higher Education Counseling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">EOC encourages all participants to gain knowledge about their post-secondary school options by supporting the student\u2019s academic journey. Our staff commonly advise participants regarding academic preparation, admissions testing, deadlines for applications, and course requirements. We build confidence within the participants to make solid decisions that are fully thought out in regard to student loans, academic program choices, and more. Likewise, we celebrate participant\u2019s first-generation status and help them to see this as an asset and not a detriment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-b87bb7\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:45%\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-2 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-fbb811\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column has-white-background-color has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1247\" height=\"701\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Caroline-with-participant-edited-2.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2636\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Caroline-with-participant-edited-2.jpeg 1247w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Caroline-with-participant-edited-2-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Caroline-with-participant-edited-2-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/09\/Caroline-with-participant-edited-2-768x432.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1247px) 100vw, 1247px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-3 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-2a691d\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:capitalize\">Financial Aid Counseling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Financial literacy is almost non-existent in EOC\u2019s service area. EOC fills that gap by offering resources and personal 1:1 support to assist individuals in obtaining financial aid information and completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and other institution specific scholarships. EOC\u2019s expertise is crucial to assist participants with financial aid, including defaulted student loans, reinstatement of financial aid eligibility, and completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and institutional scholarships.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:45%\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-2 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-db241b\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column has-white-background-color has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/2alicia.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2470\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/2alicia.webp 1024w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/2alicia-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/2alicia-768x432.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-3 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-e8ac91\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:capitalize\">Higher Education Literacy Workshops<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">EOC staff regularly present to groups of potential first-generation adult students and showcase all post-secondary options so that participants can make informed decisions about which school is the best fit for them. Staff go over terms and talk about program cost, availability, and overall feasibility specific to the geographic region of the participants. We work to demystify the whole idea of earning a degree and solidify it as a short-term goal for our first-generation clients.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-79c13d\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:45%\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-2 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-4e0cc1\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column has-white-background-color has-background eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/referral.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1853\"><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-3 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-6ba871\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\" style=\"text-transform:capitalize\">Referrals to Service Agencies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The EOC staff is well informed on the educational services available in the regions we serve. If we see that a participant would benefit from an agency in our area, we are sure to connect the two.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:45%\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">If you are interested in services, please complete this form and an Educational Specialist will get back to you soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"fancylink is-style-outline wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-25 eplus-wrapper is-style-outline--3 eplus-styles-uid-4a59b5\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-medium-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/botform.compansol.com\/231074697162156\" style=\"border-radius:5px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Request Services<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-0e45e9\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-94e6aa\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:49px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\" wp-block-spacer eplus-wrapper\"><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper eplus-styles-uid-0398de\">OUR EDUCATIONAL SPECIALISTS<\/h2><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"sc sc--mis-vis wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-f23236\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-c06c86\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/rj6t8r_a.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2115\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/rj6t8r_a.png 666w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/rj6t8r_a-237x300.png 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Rebecca Hammond<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>States \/ Counties Served:<\/strong> Fannin County, Georgia<br><strong>Phone: <\/strong>706-946-3330<br><a href=\"mailto:rhammond@utk.edu\" data-type=\"mailto\" data-id=\"mailto:rhammond@utk.edu\"><strong>Email: <\/strong>rhammond@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/alicia.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2135\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/alicia.webp 666w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/alicia-237x300.webp 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Alicia Norton<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>States \/ Counties Served:<\/strong> Georgia Counties: Rabun, Towns, Union, Gilmer, Dawon. North Carolina Counties: Cherokee.<br><strong>Phone: <\/strong>828-371-7135<br><strong>Email: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:anorton8@utk.edu\">anorton8@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/darlene.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2136\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/darlene.webp 666w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/darlene-237x300.webp 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Darlene White<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>States \/ Counties Served:<\/strong> TN Counties: Bradley, Loudon, McMinn, Meigs, Rhea, and Roane counties.<br><strong>Phone: <\/strong>423-435-8442<br><strong>Email: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:jwhit195@utk.edu\">jwhit195@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"rw rw-lvl-1 wp-block-columns eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-ddcc9f\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/amy.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2137\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/amy.webp 666w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/amy-237x300.webp 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Amy King<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>States \/ Counties Served:<\/strong> TN Counties: Knox, Union, Scott, Campbell, all NC counties by appointment.<br><strong>Phone: <\/strong>865-851-6182<br><strong>Email: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:amcfarli@utk.edu\">amcfarli@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/lori.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2138\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/lori.webp 666w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/lori-237x300.webp 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Lori Skaggs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>States \/ Counties Served:<\/strong> TN Counties: Knox, Anderson, Morgan, Cumberland<br><strong>Phone: <\/strong>865-617-1091<br><strong>Email: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:lskaggs@utk.edu\">lskaggs@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-full eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"844\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/caroline.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2139\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/caroline.webp 666w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/09\/caroline-237x300.webp 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Caroline Milne<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>States \/ Counties Served:<\/strong> TN Counties: TN Counties: Blount, Knox, Sevier<br><strong>Phone: <\/strong>865-804-9871<br><strong>Email: <\/strong><a href=\"mailto:cmilne@utk.edu\">cmilne@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull eplus-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"sc sc--college wp-block-columns alignfull eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-c1d042\">\n<div class=\"container wp-block-column eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"rw rw--1 wp-block-columns alignwide are-vertically-aligned-center eplus-wrapper is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex eplus-styles-uid-212794\">\n<div class=\"cl cl--1 wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"sc__heading wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">Our Project Director<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"rich-text eplus-wrapper\">For more information, please reach out to Stephanie Langley, MA (Principal Investigator \/ Project Director) at <a href=\"mailto:langley@utk.edu\">langley@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/s\/wihfj0t03q3kfl6\/Charles%20White.png?dl=0\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><a href=\"mailto:cwhite90@utk.edu\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center eplus-wrapper is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"794\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/Screenshot-2023-08-09-at-5.55.33-AM-794x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1839\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/Screenshot-2023-08-09-at-5.55.33-AM-794x1024.png 794w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/Screenshot-2023-08-09-at-5.55.33-AM-233x300.png 233w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/Screenshot-2023-08-09-at-5.55.33-AM-768x990.png 768w, https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2023\/08\/Screenshot-2023-08-09-at-5.55.33-AM.png 816w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 794px) 100vw, 794px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) Mission Statement The Educational Opportunity 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We meet students where they are and promote their individual education goals by helping them understand and navigate the landscape of higher [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":46,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"editor_plus_copied_stylings":"{}","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-1815","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) - Office of Educational Opportunity and TRIO Programs<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/dae.utk.edu\/trio\/educational-opportunity-center\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) - Office of Educational Opportunity and TRIO Programs\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) Mission Statement The Educational Opportunity Center provides comprehensive support for adult learners that includes career and academic counseling, post-secondary application assistance, and support for completing the financial aid process. 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