Mary Baldwin University offering program to help relieve financial barriers for some students
STAUNTON — Mary Baldwin University is offering a new program that eliminates 100% of tuition costs for incoming students from Virginia whose families earn less than $60,000 a year.
The program, Access MBU, mirrors the university’s historic mission to boost accessibility, inclusion, and social mobility for underserved populations, a press release said.
“We believe the accessibility and affordability of a high-quality education should be based on a student’s academic performance, talent, and character — not their finances,” said MBU Vice President of Enrollment Management Matt Munsey in the release.
He’s spent the past year working closely with fellow university administrators to secure institutional funding to supplement state and federal aid, and bring out-of-pocket tuition costs to zero for economically disadvantaged learners, the release said. Access MBU is available to new, residential, full-time undergraduate students enrolling for fall 2023.
Founded in 1842, Mary Baldwin was ranked 33rd in the nation and first in Virginia by U.S. News & World Report for social mobility. It was also ranked in the top 20 for serving Pell-Grant-eligible students. Pell grants are awarded through participating institutions to students with financial need.
Munsey said in the release that MBU is uniquely positioned to equip students with the skills they need to achieve success in today’s dynamic global economy.
"For example, with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know learners’ names and invest in their success," the release said. "Enhanced skills-based curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary and experiential learning that ensures students gain real-world experience and graduate workforce ready."
Munsey said that the school is excited for this opportunity being offered to new students.
“Our commitment includes giving them the support not just to enroll at MBU, but to be successful during their college experience and beyond," he said. "And we have a proven track record of following through on that commitment.”
More:'Whole different energy': Staunton council candidates face questions from seventh graders
More:Attorney: Fishersville man sent to 'the hole' while awaiting Capitol riot trial
Patrick Hite is The News Leader's education reporter. Story ideas and tips always welcome. Contact Patrick (he/him/his) at phite@newsleader.com and follow him on Twitter @Patrick_Hite. Subscribe to us at newsleader.com.
This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Mary Baldwin offering relief of financial barriers for some students
