USAO Awarded $10,000 Emergency Scholarship
The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma has been selected to receive a $10,000 block grant through the 2026 Ellucian Foundation PATH Scholarship program. The funding will be deployed directly to reduce financial hardship barriers and support students facing economic distress in reaching their educational goals.
The grant application was spearheaded and secured this past June by campus advocates Monica Trevino, Executive Director of Grants and Special Initiatives, and Robyn Rogers, Executive Director of Financial Aid and I.T. Services, through the university’s Financial Wellness Retention Committee efforts.
“This Path Scholarship provides grants to institutions to support students experiencing economic hardships.” Quoted Rogers. “Emergency aid does not affect a student’s ability to receive other financial aid, and as long as they are part-time, degree seeking students in good academic standing, they qualify.”
Established in 2020 by higher education technology solutions provider Ellucian, the PATH Scholarship program has provided more than $3.7 million in scholarships to eligible higher education institutions, benefiting thousands of students worldwide. The program provides institutions with flexible funding to help students navigate unexpected economic hurdles that might otherwise threaten degree completion.
“My hope is that students who run into a difficult situation will be able to continue their studies like normal, even when unexpected things occur.” Quoted Trevino. “Maybe they got sick, maybe their car needs a repair – emergency aid can help cover when an unforeseen expense creates a financial hardship.”
Following the formal execution of the grant agreement and finalization of payment instructions in the coming weeks, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma can begin distributing the scholarship funds to eligible students in need.
College is hard, and it’s even harder when the right resources aren’t available. In addition to the Ellucian Scholarship, USAO has a variety of other resources available to help those who need it.
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About USAO:
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college. Located in Chickasha, USAO is a distinctive institution offering a challenging interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. With a focus on broad-based education and civic responsibility, USAO prepares students to become well-rounded, adaptable leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Contact: Hannah Thompson | 405-574-1362