TRIO's Halloween Celebration Brings Fun and Financial Education Together

LIVONIA, MICH. - Halloween fun met educational opportunity on Thursday, October 29, 2026, as Madonna University's TRIO Student Support Services hosted its annual Halloween Pumpkin Painting and Midterm Recovery Celebration.

From noon to 5 p.m., students enjoyed creative pumpkin painting, fresh apple cider, delicious doughnuts, and an afternoon of friendship and relaxation following midterm examinations. The festive gathering offered a welcome opportunity to recharge, socialize, and celebrate the spirit of the TRIO community.

Beyond the Halloween festivities, the event featured an essential TRIO educational component: a Financial Aid Tips Workshop. Two special guests from Madonna University's Student Financial Services contributed their expertise:

• Mark Schroeder, Director of Student Financial Services
• Elisa Dossantos, Financial Aid Officer

The workshop was designed to help students better understand financial aid, explore available resources, and ask important questions about financing their education. This educational component reflected TRIO's commitment to promoting financial awareness, academic persistence, and student success.

About TRIO Student Support Services

As a federally funded program serving students who meet at least one of TRIO's three core eligibility criteria-first-generation college status, finance-based eligibility, or accessibility-TRIO provides academic guidance, tutoring, mentoring, and opportunities for personal development. Students could also earn credit toward their required TRIO program contacts through participation.

The TRIO team extends heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Dossantos, Mr. Schroeder, and all participating students for making this celebration meaningful.

The pumpkins brought creativity, the workshop brought knowledge, and the students brought the TRIO Spirit!

More than a Halloween party, the gathering celebrated TRIO's enduring mission: empowering students through education, opportunity, friendship, and a supportive community where everyone belongs and is encouraged to strive for excellence.

Submitted by Marius N. Sidau, TRIO Assistant Director