Many students face invisible hardships that threaten their graduation—from financial barriers to mental health challenges. The Jordan Trotman Foundation works to remove these obstacles and help every student succeed.

Black college students in Plainfield and Irvington, New Jersey, face mounting financial barriers as the 2025–2026 school year approaches.

Rising living expenses, a proposed $400 million reduction in state higher education funding, and stricter financial aid qualifications are putting graduation at risk for many.

If approved, these cuts would slash essential support services and end the Summer Tuition Aid Grant program, which helped thousands stay on track.

At the same time, rule changes will block new students from key grants if their family income exceeds $65,001, narrowing opportunity just as costs climb.

With the total price of attendance consuming much of a typical Black family’s income, non-traditional students balancing work and studies are especially vulnerable.

Community advocates are urging lawmakers to boost investment and protect aid programs, stressing the urgent need to address longstanding inequities that threaten college dreams for Black students.