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August 25, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25

Statement from Interim University of Alaska President Pat Pitney on the Governor’s announcement to fund student scholarships, grants and medical student tuition

The University of Alaska appreciates Governor Dunleavy’s action to release $21.4 million in funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship [APS], Alaska Education Grant [AEG] and the Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, Idaho [WWAMI] Program. By recognizing the validity of FY22 budget appropriation this action provides certainty for ÂÌÅ«Ì컨°å’s universities and students.

You’ll recall that in July, I announced the university would honor funding for these state scholarships and grants, by delaying receipt of payment from the state. My purpose for doing so was to ameliorate our students’ concerns about the outcome of the legislative special session. This action today assures stable year-long program funding.

With this year’s scholarships and grant funding secured, we will now focus our attention on ensuring the source of funding for these programs, the Higher Education Investment Fund (HEIF), is restored so these programs are funded for the long-term.

This decision recognizes these programs as critical to the future of Alaska and the wellbeing of our students who want to study and earn their degree or job training at one of our three universities. On behalf of the thousands of students who are counting on these funds for their future education, we are thankful for this outcome.

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For more information, contact Roberta Graham, associate vice president of public affairs at 907-360-2416 (cell).