To the University community,
One thing is certain during times of uncertainty: Slippery Rock University is rock solid in our commitment to our values and our students.
There have been a lot of questions surrounding financial aid and the Department of Education (DOE) and how changes might impact students at The Rock.
We have been assured that proposed changes at the Federal level regarding the DOE might affect the timing of awards but not access to aid.
We are fortunate to have amazing leaders with Michael May, Vice President for Enrollment Management, and Alyssa Dobson, Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships. We head into summer with gratitude for their teams’ efforts this past year in supporting the academic growth and career goals of our students.
I share with you below this important update from Alyssa Dobson:
We know the 2024 FAFSA cycle was tumultuous. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we worked together through the delays. For this year, we have been meeting goals and staying on schedule, and in some instances even surpassed important financial aid benchmarks.
Perhaps most importantly, we are not experiencing or expecting any delays or disruptions to financial aid for the coming semesters.
Below are exciting updates that demonstrate the ongoing opportunities available to our students.
- There are more Pell dollars available to more Pell eligible students than ever before
- $14 million currently.
- $14 million currently.
- The Pennsylvania Ready to Succeed Scholarship, while subject to delays, is fully available.
- 489 additional eligible students this year as compared to the past.
- Pennsylvania residents with their FAFSA form on file will be nominated by the University if eligible.
- GrowPA scholarship program, an exciting new opportunity for PA residents.
- Visit pheaa.org/growPA to review the eligible majors and apply.
- Students may receive $5,000 per year with their commitment to work in Pennsylvania for one year for each year the funds are used.
- The deadlines are approaching for completing the 2025-2026 FAFSA application. Completing the FAFSA is even more important this year to help ensure that our students take advantage of additional financial aid opportunities
I am so appreciative of the students, faculty and staff that have filled our wonderful year with learning, laughter and living. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do for you or if you have questions. We are all here to support one another. You are the best part of The Rock, and I look forward to celebrating the Class of 2025 at this year’s Commencement with you!
With appreciation,
Karen Riley, Ph.D.
SRU President
