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Howard University is working to reverse the financial burdens of their juniors and seniors by removing their debts to the popular HBCU.
On Friday, Howard announced its plans to clear the debts of juniors and seniors facing financial setbacks due to the pandemic. President Wayne A.I. Frederick said the move applies to students with a $0 expected family contribution and an outstanding balance for the Spring 2021 semester.
The eligible students will be happy to see a credit to their accounts that completely wipe away their current school debt.
“Howard University is committed to holistically supporting our students and removing barriers they may encounter on the road to graduation,” Frederick said in an email announcement sent out to students. “During the course of the pandemic, we know that many students experienced unforeseen financial hardships that put their plans for pursuing higher education in jeopardy.
He shared the efforts Howard University has already made to aid students amid the ongoing international health pandemic.
“In total, we have distributed over $27 million in direct cash payments, waived fees, emergency housing and meal assistance, and provided other supportive services to students since March 2020 to ensure they could afford their education and living expenses,” Frederick said before announcing the big news.
“I am pleased to announce that Howard is continuing these efforts by alleviating more student debt with the intent of increasing the chances for students to complete their degree programs.”
The rollout on debt relief has already begun for some students, with more credits set to be issued out in the coming weeks. Eligible students will see the results after checking their accounts and seeing a credit labeled “HU COVID Need Support.”
“I continue to be incredibly grateful for the support of the donors who have made this debt alleviation possible,” Frederick added. “I am equally thankful for the perseverance exhibited by these and all students who have persisted in their educational journey despite difficult circumstances.”
Other relief efforts Howard has contributed since the start of the pandemic include access to laptops for students, keeping the campus food pantry open, providing housing to displaced students, and emergency funds for families in need.
The HBCU also set up testing centers in Black communities and created a vaccination clinic that has helped distribute over 55,000 doses of the vaccine to the local community. The University also prides itself in not having to lay off any of its faculty and staff.
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