The Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship is currently slated for removal by the U.S. House Appropriations Committee. This move stems from a recommendation by the Department of Education to cut the program because it “duplicates existing Federal student financial assistance programs, as well as State, local and private efforts that provide merit-based resources for postsecondary education.”
Fortunately, last year’s appropriation covers the program for the upcoming Fall and Spring semesters; therefore, current scholars are guaranteed payment through Spring 2007. While the program has survived past efforts to eliminate it, it would still be a good idea for current Byrd Scholars to contact their Representative and Senators to let them know how the scholarship has benefited their efforts to gain a college education. Contact information for your Congressional Representatives can be found here.
Word.
Comment by Jeremiah — July 7, 2006 @ 6:43 pm |
It’s surprising/confusing to think that the Department of Education would suggest such a thing. As an endangered byrd (the new street slang for all Byrd Scholars), I can say that this scholarship has been extremely helpful in funding my education, and that the grounds for its removal seem rather ridiculous. Essentially, every scholarship beyond HOPE duplicates student financial assistance providing merit-based resources for postsecondary education. Furthermore, the application process for this particular scholarship is rather unique in that the ability to even apply is based soley on Counselor recommendation. I’ll be sure to write my representative ASAP. As a side note: I wonder what stance, if any, the gubernatorial candidates will take on this issue. —- Educating myself more and more everyday
Comment by Romulus — July 8, 2006 @ 2:44 am |
This is absurd. I haven’t even received the money from this scholarship yet and they are threatening to cut it off? I would expect better of our Department of Education. Not everyone stays in Georgia and utilizes the renowned HOPE scholarship.
Comment by Shelley — January 10, 2007 @ 9:14 pm |