Newman offers help for people hit by the economic downturn

Newman University is responding to the needs of the community during the economic downturn by offering several special programs and events. One initiative is the “Displaced Workers Program,” which offers a reduced tuition rate for those who lose a job due to economic cutbacks and layoffs. Depending on the academic program, qualifying students will realize up to a 50 percent savings per credit hour. Students will be eligible for the reduced tuition rates for four consecutive fall and spring semesters.

Newman is also taking part in the “Yellow Ribbon Program,” a provision of the new Post 9/11 GI Bill designed for veterans, active duty personnel and family members who want to attend a private college or university. Under the new bill, which takes effect in August 2009, the government will cover the costs of in-state tuition and fees up to the most expensive public institution in the state. In addition, under the Yellow Ribbon Program the government will match dollar for dollar contributions Newman makes to help cover tuition and fees that go beyond those costs. Those interested in the program should first contact the Veterans Administration before contacting Newman. For more information on the Yellow Ribbon Program and other GI benefits, visit www.gibill.va.gov.

Newman has also recently presented a career fair, several job-hunting skills workshops and a “Life After Layoff ” event to help those seeking employment, and will introduce a bachelor of arts in Interdisciplinary Studies degree program in fall 2009 that will allow people to obtain a degree using credits earned from other universities (see related story, page 8).

Various workshops and conferences for professionals to earn continuing education credits will also be scheduled throughout the year. In addition, the university offers degree completion programs in business management, paralegal and counseling, as well as graduate degree programs in business administration, education, social work and nurse anesthesia.

RETOOL YOUR SKILLSET www.newmanu.edu/adults.aspx

Tags: Department of Veterans Affairs, Displaced Workers Program, G.I. Bill Yellow Ribbon Program, Interdisciplinary Studies, Life After Layoff