Sussex County Community College awarded $1.25M to expand inclusive education through partnership with Georgian Court University
NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — Sussex County Community College (SCCC) has been awarded approximately $1.25 million over the next five years through a partnership with Georgian Court University (GCU) as part of the U.S. Department of Education’s Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID) initiative.
The funding will support the development and expansion of inclusive postsecondary education programs for students with intellectual disabilities. The award represents one of only 27 grants nationwide, with fewer than 1% of colleges and universities receiving the designation.
The collaborative grant was led by Georgian Court University and aims to build a statewide network of inclusive higher education opportunities, expanding access, support, and successful outcomes for students with intellectual disabilities. Roughly half of the funding will advance the TPSID program at SCCC, while the remainder will strengthen and expand the existing program at GCU.
“This grant is a tremendous opportunity not only for Sussex County Community College, but for the broader community of students who have traditionally faced barriers to higher education,” said Dr. Cory Homer, President of Sussex County Community College. “Through our partnership with Georgian Court University, we’re committed to creating pathways that promote independence, career readiness, and lifelong learning.”
Over the next five years, SCCC will use the grant to develop new academic and social support structures, enhance campus accessibility, provide specialized faculty training, and offer work-based learning experiences designed to meet the needs of students with intellectual disabilities.
The TPSID program, administered by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education, supports model demonstration projects that promote inclusive higher education and prepare students for competitive employment and independent living.
SCCC officials said more details about the program’s implementation will be announced in the coming months.
