Students in storm damaged counties helped most by PSU

Pittsburg State University helped more students from counties damaged by floods and tornadoes this year than any other university in Kansas, according to a report released today by the Kansas Board of Regents. According to the report, out of the 592 students assisted statewide, 211 – or 36 percent – are enrolled at Pitt State.

“We are very pleased we were able to help so many students whose lives were affected by this year’s unusual events,” PSU President Tom Bryant said. “Pittsburg State always tries to find ways to help students make higher education possible. Because of the widespread storm and flood damage in Kansas, those numbers were high. I commend our staff for redoubling their efforts to assist those in need.”

Pitt State made the announcement in June that it would offer financial assistance for students living in the 43 Kansas counties that were declared eligible for federal assistance. The areas include Greensburg, Kan., which was devastated by a tornado in May, and Coffeyville, Kan., which was flooded in June. Pitt State also extended financial assistance to students in Oklahoma counties affected by natural disasters.

According to a survey conducted by the Board of Regents in May, there were more than 21,000 students from the affected counties who attended the state’s Regents universities last fall.

Debbie Greve, PSU Registrar, said once the Board of Regents made the decision for its universities to offer financial assistance, her office worked long hours to contact students individually and make sure they were aware they could receive help.

“We wanted everyone to know that even if they thought they wouldn’t be able to afford tuition this semester, we could work with them,” she said. “We’ve made sure college continued to be a reality.”

For more information, contact the Office of Public Relations at 620-235-4122.

---Pitt State---