By Gene A. Lambey
Special to the AFRO
Community members are pulling financial resources together to support Howard University students at risk of missing their chance to walk the commencement stage on May 9 due to outstanding bills.
Dr. Stacey Patton, author, digital journalism professor for Howard University, and research associate professor for the Institute for Urban Research at Morgan State University launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe to help satisfy the fees owed by graduating Howard seniors.
The students have completed their courses and earned enough credits to satisfy their degree requirements, yet they may not graduate because they have balances due.
“Every contribution moves someone closer to the stage. And together, we can do what we’ve already proven is possible. We can get them across the stage,” said Patton, on the GoFundMe page. “If you can give, give. If you can’t, share this campaign. Because no student who has done the work should be left at the finish line because of money.”
Patton has raised $100,877 of her $120,000 goal since creating the fundraiser on April 7. Several students who were in debt have been cleared so far and will be able to walk for graduation.
Donations go directly to students who are at risk of not graduating. Students submit their request forms along with their bill from the bursar’s office.
Payments for student’s remaining debt will be sent to the students via CashApp, Zelle, cash or through the bursar’s office. A payment receipt must be submitted.
Students who have already benefited from the fund took to social media to testify about how the donations have helped.
Mersaideiz Howard, a first generation student, was one of many graduating Howard seniors with a debt. Her $8,200 bill was paid off through the donations. She will walk on May 9.
“I want to give a huge shout out to Doctor P and all the donors,” said Howard.
Kyle Alexander, a graduating senior, had a debt of $12,777. His debt was paid off as well. He will graduate in the fall.
“I want to say thank you to Doctor P because she made the resources available to help me pay that balance off,” said Alexander.
To donate to the fundraiser, click here.