July 16, 2009
Clark embraces new "Yellow Ribbon" G.I. Education Assistance Program
This program is a generous veterans' benefit for higher education which takes effect on August 1, 2009.
The program is a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. It allows institutions of higher learning (degree-granting institutions) in the United States to enter voluntarily into an agreement with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to fund tuition and fee expenses that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. The institution can contribute a specified dollar amount of those expenses and VA will match the same amount as the institution not to exceed 50% of the difference.
For eligible veterans entering the undergraduate college and demonstrating financial need, Clark is prepared to match the Yellow Ribbon funds with up to $15,000; it will also provide financial aid for certain graduate programs up to $8,000.
"Like so many colleges and universities in America, Clark is proud to take part in the Yellow Ribbon program, the most important higher-education benefit for our returning veterans since the GI Bill," said Clark University President John Bassett. "Clark welcomes veterans seeking a stimulating student-focused education emphasizing active learning, a global perspective, and a philosophy of making a positive difference in our world."
The eight Central Massachusetts colleges that are participating are all members of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM). They and 40 other AICUM colleges will serve nearly 2,500 veterans through the program.
"We are extremely pleased with the number and diversity of independent Massachusetts colleges and universities that have chosen to participate in the inaugural year of the Yellow Ribbon program of the new G.I. Bill," said Richard Doherty, president of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM). "This is a terrific higher education opportunity for our most deserving post 9/11 veterans. The extensive participation of AICUM institutions is a testament to the service of our vets."
For more information on the program, visit the VA Web site. For information about this benefit at Clark, visit the Financial Aid Web site.