Keynote speaker and local author J.L. Hyde. (Photo courtesy of Bay College)

ESCANABA – Bay College’s TRIO Student Support Services program will host its annual 3.0 Dinner on Wednesday, April 15, recognizing the academic accomplishments of TRIO students.

The evening will begin with a keynote presentation from esteemed local author J.L. Hyde, from 5-6 p.m. Eastern in the Besse Theater on Bay College’s Escanaba campus. This portion of the event is open to the public. Community members, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend. 

Following the presentation, TRIO will host an invitation-only dinner and awards ceremony honoring students who earned a 3.0 GPA or higher during the Winter 2025 semester or the Fall 2025 semester. 

“This event is about recognizing the work our students are putting in every day,” said TRIO Director Matt Stewart. “Many of our students are balancing school, jobs and family responsibilities. Maintaining a high GPA is a big accomplishment and it deserves to be celebrated.”

Hyde, a Gladstone native, is the author of eleven murder mystery novels. Her book Delta County was optioned for film, and her upcoming Westridge Cove Mystery Series recently secured a three-book audio deal with Podium Entertainment. She was also recognized by the local chamber of commerce as an ambassador to Delta County for promoting the region through her work.

A first-generation college student herself, Hyde said she was eager to speak with TRIO students. 

“I usually shy away from speaking engagements, but when I heard about TRIO and their mission, I couldn’t say no,” Hyde said. “I am a first-generation college student in a family of blue-collar workers from a small town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula–it certainly seemed an insurmountable dream to think I could become a bestselling author . . . I can’t wait to share my story with these students who are just starting their journey.”

The TRIO Student Support Services program at Bay College helps students stay on track academically, graduate, and transfer to four-year institutions. The program serves students who are first-generation, income-eligible, or have disabilities.

Community members interested in the keynote presentation are welcome to attend from 5-6 p.m. April 15 in the Besse Theater.