Union County Development Association

BOONEVILLE, MISS. – Union County and New Albany Officials will announce a tuition guarantee program for Union County on Monday, September 22 at 11 a.m. at the Northeast at New Albany Center.

The Union County/New Albany Tuition Guarantee program is the very first of its kind in Northeast Mississippi. This program is different than others because it has been completely funded by the city and county governments. This type of leadership exemplifies what can be done when all concerned work together.

Starting with the high school class of 2009, all Union County residents graduating from any Union County/New Albany public high school and have been accepted to Northeast Mississippi Community College will have their tuition completely paid. “This is an exciting time for Union County residents to know from this point forward attending college at Northeast is obtainable.” said Danny Jordan, President of the Union County Supervisors

The Union County Supervisors and City of New Albany Mayor and Board of Aldermen have devised a tuition guarantee plan to assure Union County/New Albany graduates the opportunity to obtain an associate degree from Northeast Mississippi Community College. The plan provides covering tuition on an annual basis and provisions for building an endowment that will cover tuition permanently. Tim Kent, Mayor of the City of New Albany said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for all of our upcoming high school graduates who are pursuing a college degree at Northeast.”

In a joint partnership with Three Rivers Planning and Development District, $50,000 will be given annually by Union County, $50,000 by the City of New Albany, and a $25,000 match grant for the next ten years will be given by Three Rivers Planning and Development District. “I am excited and humbled to partner with Union County, it is good for the kids, it’s great for the parents and super for all those involved” said Randy Kelly The Executive Director for The Three Rivers Planning and Development District.

Northeast President Johnny Allen said “I compliment the leadership of Union County and New Albany for working together to assure that all residents who graduate from their area high school the opportunity for a quality education at Northeast Mississippi Community College.”

The program will cover tuition at Northeast Mississippi Community College after grants and scholarships are applied. The program is good for four consecutive semesters, as long as the students take at least 12 course hours a semester and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Patrick Eaton, Executive Director of Northeast Development Foundation said, “I applaud the efforts of these leaders for working together to provide a permanent tuition program for the residents of Union County. Additionally, we feel that there are many individuals and businesses that will follow the leadership of Union County and city of New Albany and make contributions to Northeast.”

For more information and to obtain an application, please contact the Financial Aid Office at Northeast Mississippi Community College at (662) 720-7205 or email at jhprather@nemcc.edu

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