Joseph Dominguez Pena of West Point, Neb., is a sophomore majoring in Criminal Justice.
Joseph Dominguez Peña of West Point, Neb., has been named Wayne State College’s TRIO Student of the Month for September.
Peña is a sophomore majoring in Criminal Justice at Wayne State.
“I chose to attend Wayne State because it has one of the best Criminal Justice programs in Nebraska,” said Peña. “After graduation, I would like to become a crime scene investigator.”
Peña is involved with Wayne State’s TRIO Student Support Services Program, which he says has helped him tremendously with his college experience.
“TRIO has helped me adjust to college life and provided me with the support and resources I need to succeed academically,” said Peña. “It has also encouraged me to stay focused on my goals.”
But Peña isn’t just benefitting himself; he’s helping other students achieve their goals by serving as a TRIO Peer Mentor.
“I support other students by sharing my own experiences and encouraging them when they face challenges,” said Peña. “I want to be someone they can come to for advice and motivation, especially first-generation students who may be unsure about navigating college.”
Peña’s work and commitment haven’t gone unnoticed.
“Since arriving last fall, Joseph has immersed himself in the campus community,” said Vito Cole, a learning skills specialist with the TRIO Program. “He is a strong student, and he made the Dean’s List in the spring. In the short time he has been here, he has established himself as a leader in the TRIO Program. He is quick with a joke and a smile. He brings positive energy and charisma, and he has the innate ability to bring people together. He is an asset to both Wayne State and the TRIO Program.”
Peña, who is scheduled to graduate in May 2029, is the son of Basilio Dominguez and Sandra Peña.
“My parents and my brothers have been my biggest influence during my college life,” said Peña. “As a first-generation student, they have always encouraged me to work hard and stayed focused on my goals. Their support has motivated me to make the most of my college experience and build a successful future.”
About TRIO Student Support Services
TRIO Student Support Services is a federally funded outreach and student services program administered by the U.S. Department of Education to help first-generation college students, students who meet income guidelines, and individuals with disabilities progress through their academic journeys. It was originally created through the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 and the Higher Education Act of 1965.
At Wayne State College, TRIO Student Support Services works with 225 students and has a robust waiting list. Led by Dr. Liesel Mrsny, the TRIO Program offers academic coaching, community building, intensive advising, peer mentoring and much more. TRIO provides these services to students free of charge through a five-year federal grant. TRIO plays a vital role in increasing retention and graduation rates for students facing socioeconomic barriers.