ISSUED: 31 May 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Cecelia Mason
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University President Dr. Mary Hendrix expresses gratitude to the West Virginia Legislature and Governor Jim Justice for funding to support West Virginia’s student financial aid programs and for faculty and staff healthcare benefits.
Senate Bill 1007, passed during a recent special session, appropriated $32 million in surplus funding for the employer portion of the premium increase to PEIA (Public Employee Insurance Agency) for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
The bill also provided more than $41 million to the State’s student financial assistance programs.
While federal programs are disrupted because of an effort by the US Department of Education to simplify the FAFSA student aid form, West Virginia’s college students can turn to this increased aid to keep their collegiate education at Shepherd University on track.
Shepherd University will directly receive more than $761,000 based on the number of employees participating in the state-run healthcare system.
Hendrix believes that this funding is an extraordinary gesture of support.
“We are very grateful that lawmakers and the Governor provided this generous resource for our employees,” she said. “Their recognition of the strain increased healthcare costs pose to Shepherd and other institutions demonstrates their willingness to partner with us in recruiting and retaining great employees.”
The funding can only be used for its designated purpose and will be available almost immediately.
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