Anderson University sets up tuition grant for essential workers

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Anderson University is accepting applications for an Essential Workers Grant to honor the dedication and service of frontline workers.

Applications are being accepted until July 22.

This educational grant, funded by the university, provides up to $4,750 toward any Anderson University online bachelor’s degree or certificate program and select master’s degrees in education, business, public service, health professions and Christian studies, according to a news release.

“Our frontline workers have and continue to put themselves at risk to support and sustain us throughout the pandemic in order to serve the public,” Benjamin Deaton, vice president of technology, online learning and innovation at Anderson University, said in the news release. “The Essential Workers Grant is just one way for us to recognize their hard work and sacrifice while offering financial support to further their education and career.”

Applicants must be employed by a verified essential business and apply before the deadline. Prospective students must enroll first before applying for the grant.

“A recent Greenville Chamber employer survey indicates that over the next three to five years, businesses foresee additional demand for educational attainment at all levels. Education institutions are taking note and bringing creative solutions to market,” Cheryl Garrison, director of Talent and Workforce Solutions, Greenville Chamber, said in the release.

Colleges responding to COVID-19 challenges include Greenville Technical College and Spartanburg Technical College, both recently announcing plans to extend their free-tuition plans.

Essential workers include health care workers and first responders but also grocery store workers and gas station employees. Anyone interested can check first to see if they qualify by emailing [email protected].

Also “you don't have to choose a program that leads someone into an essential worker role,” Amy Gutzmer, executive director of post traditional marketing and enrollment operations, said in an email. “For example, it might be a teacher that wants to earn an MBA or instructional design degree to move into a corporate training role. It might be a hospitality worker that wants to finish a degree and become a K-12 teacher.”