Jacksonville, NC- A statewide awareness campaign, called “Time for a New YOU,” launched today for the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund that is available for eligible North Carolina community college students. GEER provides $15 million in tuition assistance to students enrolled in short-term workforce training programs in one of North Carolina’s “Great 58” community colleges.

Coastal Carolina Community College is thrilled to provide this opportunity to our community.  The short-term programs supported by the scholarship are in high-demand fields that will lead to a state or industry-recognized credential. Several high-demand areas have been identified and are emergency medical services, healthcare, information technology, fire and rescue services, and transportation.

“Our community colleges are strengthening North Carolina’s position in the global marketplace, and we will lead the state’s economic recovery,” said Thomas A. Stith III, president of the N.C. Community College System. “Our community colleges provide affordable and accessible education opportunities and produce graduates who are highly competitive candidates for hire.”

The scholarship awards are determined locally based on student need, local industry needs, number of eligible students, and cost of course. The $500.00- $750.00 ($800 to cover CDL only) scholarship help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies, credentialing tests, transportation, childcare, and other components of the total cost of attendance for students enrolled in the Coastal Carolina Community College workforce Continuing Education programs of study.

Eligible students must be a N.C. resident and currently enrolled in an eligible continuing education program or course for a minimum of 96 hours.

Questions should be directed to the Human Services Department at Coastal Carolina Community College 910.938.6309, Nicole Hall halln@coastalcarolina.edu