WINTERVILLE—A relief fund to help North Carolina recover economically from the pandemic is giving students enrolling in select Pitt Community College continuing education programming a new scholarship opportunity to pursue.
This month, the N.C. Community College System (NCCCS) launched a statewide awareness campaign to promote the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund. Established through a U.S. Department of Education grant, GEER makes $15 million in tuition assistance available to students who enroll in short-term workforce training programs at any of the state’s 58 community colleges.
“Our community colleges are strengthening North Carolina’s position in the global marketplace, and we will lead the state’s economic recovery,” said NCCCS President Thomas A. Stith III. “Our community colleges provide affordable and accessible education opportunities and produce graduates who are highly-competitive candidates for hire.”
GEER scholarships are worth as much as $750 to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books and supplies, credentialing tests, transportation, childcare, and other costs of attendance. Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
To be eligible, a student must be North Carolina resident enrolled in a program that offers at least 96 hours of training and leads to state or industry-recognized credentials in a high-demand career field. PCC’s GEER-approved programs are BioWork: Process Technician, Cardiovascular Technician, Certified Nurse Aide I and II, Cosmetology, Human Resource Development, Machining for Gunsmithing, Masonry/Bricklaying, Medication Aide, Phlebotomy and Welding.
“Being able to offer scholarships that cover the entirety of these short-term training programs is having a significant positive impact on our community,” said PCC Financial Aid Director Lee Bray. “Students are benefiting by being able to get back into the workforce quickly, and we can provide the funding they desperately need to do it.”
Questions regarding GEER scholarships should be directed to the PCC Financial Aid Office at pccfa@email.pittcc.edu. Information is also available by visiting TimeForANewYou.org.