By now, everyone has witnessed the devastating effects Hurricane Dorian had on the Bahamas, destroying houses and claiming the lives of an increasing number of residents.
While aid has begun to rise across the country for those on the island, an HBCU has stepped up to assist in the relief efforts in a different way.
Hampton University has announced that they have entered into an agreement with the University of the Bahamas-North to “allow students who have been displaced by the hurricane to continue their education on HU’s campus.”
It’s a selfless move by the institution, one that extends a hand to those who are in desperate need.
“I think this agreement is something that can be helpful to a great number of students and families, and is part of something I’ve tried to do my entire career – helping people to achieve and meet their goals,” said Hampton University President, Dr. William R. Harvey, in a school statement.
Hampton University to Offer Free Enrollment, Room & Board to University of the Bahamas Students Displaced by Hurricane Dorian: https://t.co/PMpJXH5RbX pic.twitter.com/um8BQcXRHA
— Hampton University (@_HamptonU) September 5, 2019
Per the release:
Dr. Harvey and Dr. Rodney Smith, the President of the University of the Bahamas, the former Administrative Vice President and Chief Planning Officer at Hampton University, came to this agreement after Hurricane Dorian battered the Bahamas with high winds and rain for more than two days, causing extensive damage and several deaths.
Students from the University of the Bahamas-North will be able to attend classes at Hampton for the fall 2019 semester, receive room and board for one semester, and will have the option to stay at Hampton once the semester is over at regular rates for tuition and fees.
“Hampton has been the educational choice for many Bahamians over its long history. I am grateful to President Harvey and university leadership on this demonstration of kindness and humanity to my home in our time of need,” said Lawrence Rigby, (c/o 2015), 2014-2015 Student Government Association President from Nassau, New Providence. “Young Bahamians from Abaco and Grand Bahama who are looking for the tools to rebuild their lives and our home will find them at Hampton.”
Shout out to Hampton for this decision, and let’s hope that they inspire support from others across the country to help out the island while they try to rebuild.
