University plans to honor 5,400 scholarships, despite GOP decision to block funds

The University of Alaska will guarantee that 5,400 students will receive scholarships this fall and 80 Alaska medical students will get funding to continue in the WWAMI program, regardless of the failure by the state to fund the scholarships.

UA President Pat Pitney said the recipients of the Alaska Performance Scholarship and the Alaska Education Grant will get their money from the university, and she expects the Legislature and governor to fund the program during the August special session and cover the amounts required.

This has been a major issue for thousands of students and a real threat to enrollment across the state. It’s a good move by Pitney, but the lack of leadership by Dunleavy and the difficulty of getting a three-quarter majority means there is a risk that House Republicans will again block the funds students and now the UA are counting on.

Two years ago, the last time a political dispute delayed funding for scholarships, a significant number of students withdrew from the university. Pitney is taking action now to provide fiscal certainty to students.

“We’ve heard their concerns, weighed options for how to create certainty for the 5,400 Alaskans awarded the scholarships or needs-based grants, and decided the university will honor the APS and AEG awards to new and continuing students for this fall. UA understands funding from the state to cover these scholarships will be delayed. But for now, our most pressing goal is to ensure students pursue their higher education goals without added financial stress. To accomplish that goal, the UA system is acting now so that our students can focus on a successful collegiate experience this fall.”

“Our students rely on these important financial aid tools to fund their education, and they have worked incredibly hard to earn these awards. I am particularly proud that 86 percent of those receiving the APS and AEG have chosen to attend one of our three universities.”

“I am confident the Legislature and governor will resolve this issue during the August special session. In addition to the scholarships and grant programs, this issue impacts the state’s contribution to the WWAMI program, which provides $3.2 million in funding to support 80 UAA medical students in partnerships with the University of Washington. Your voice is critical for communicating the importance of these programs for the long-term. Please reach out to legislators and the governor to express the need to resolve this issue as soon as possible.”

A majority of legislators approved funding for the scholarships, but a super majority was needed and House Republicans—with encouragement from Gov. Mike Dunleavy—blocked the funding because they want larger Permanent Fund dividends.