LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Trump administration's proposed 2027 federal budget threatens to eliminate educational support programs that could affect as many as 21,000 first-generation college students across Kentucky, according to college registrars cited by Public News Service.

The proposed cuts would slash more than $1 billion from TRIO programs, which provide mentoring, tutoring and financial literacy education to disadvantaged students nationwide. The administration claims the initiatives have failed to achieve their goals, but supporters from both political parties argue the programs should be fully funded.

Dan Sullivan, executive site director for College Track, a Lexington-based nonprofit that prepares students for college and careers, warned the elimination would deprive Kentucky of a critical resource. "These are students that have drive, talent, persistence, commitment. Taking this away is going to take away an incredible resource for our country, our workforce," Sullivan said.

First-generation students face unique obstacles that their peers whose parents attended college typically avoid, Sullivan explained. Without family experience navigating higher education, these students struggle with college applications, financial aid processes and building professional networks—advantages their classmates often inherit from relatives and family friends.

College Track's decade-long support model begins in high school, helping students become more academically competitive for college admission and career preparation. The program assists with internship and externship opportunities that provide work experience and professional networking connections.

Kentucky's college-going population reflects the national trend: an estimated 43% of college students statewide are the first in their families to attend college. Most Kentucky colleges operate dedicated support programs, communities and advocacy networks for first-generation students.

The proposed cuts come as labor market projections show urgency for the programs. Within the next decade, 72% of jobs are expected to require a college degree or professional credential. Critics warn the budget cuts could exacerbate a skilled-worker shortage if fewer disadvantaged students can access the support needed to complete degrees.