CDU Directs Over $2 Million of Federal Funding to Student Financial Aid Relief
CDU has allocated more than $2 million of Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF) authorized in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to provide financial relief directly to students.
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021 provides $39.6 billion in support to institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the COVID-19 pandemic. CDU will use more than $2 million of the University’s HEERF allocation from ARP to directly assist students who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our students are the beating heart and soul of CDU and, like so many people in communities everywhere, have experienced many hardships throughout the pandemic,” shared CDU President Dr. David M. Carlisle. “CDU is grateful to have access to this funding to provide financial relief directly to students for addressing academic, financial, childcare, housing, food insecurity or health/mental health pressures they are currently facing. Together we can continue along the path to achieving excellent health and wellness for all in a world without health disparities.”
CDU is providing direct aid ranging from $1,250-$3,800 to nearly 800 students. Distribution of the funding began in March. Multiple criteria were considered to determine which students receive funds and the value of those disbursements.
Students with certified financial hardships as a result of COVID-19 make up the largest group of intended recipients, followed by students who have a significant unmet need according to their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Financial hardships, disadvantaged student statuses, federal poverty guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, and the unmet needs of Pell and State Grant recipients were also taken into consideration. The University is also prioritizing this funding for its currently enrolled undergraduate students.