The National TRIO Day celebration is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb 17, at Wichita State University with a banquet in the Rhatigan Student Center ballroom.

“The evening program is a first-time effort to include those who have not been able to join students at the afternoon programs,” said Deltha Q. Colvin, associate vice president for Campus Life and TRIO director at WSU.

“The (TRIO) programs are excited this year to host an evening program to share the accomplishments of the students and programs, acknowledge USD 259 supporters and community leaders, and welcome guests,” said Colvin.

The various TRIO programs within WSU include Upward Bound Wichita Prep, Upward Bound Math Science, Communication Upward Bound, Veterans Upward Bound, Student Support Services, Disability Support Services, Talent Search, McNair Scholars, and the Educational Opportunity Centers programs.

In addition, other outreach programs are Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, and the Office of Disability Services.

These programs embody the university’s commitment to service, and it is this commitment that is celebrated on TRIO Day.

Flowers, a juvenile justice practitioner and founder of Higher M-Pact Inc., will be the keynote speaker.

In his capacity as founder and president of this organization, he helps to mentor, develop and restore hope in the lives of high-risk urban youth, their families and high-risk communities, thus turning their obstacles into opportunities and creating a foundation for success.

Higher M-Pact has positioned itself to emerge as a leader in providing effective programs, services and experiences to youth in the Kansas City, Mo., area and beyond.

Flowers has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including being named one of “Kansas City’s 25 Most Influential Movers and Shakers 50 and Under.”