The University of the Virgin Islands Becomes First HBCU to Provide Free Tuition

Posted By: Hija Chang on February 17, 2019
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The University of the Virgin Islands has become the first historically Black college or university to provide its students with free tuition.

After Hurricane Maria in 2017, the student retention rate at the university fell significantly. This new program was introduced by Lieutenant Governor and Senator Tregenza Roach to increase the retention rate at the university. In order to receive free tuition, students will need to have a 2.5 grade point average and be a resident of the Virgin Islands.

Additionally, they will have to take part in community service projects within seven years of graduating.

�A college degree is no longer a luxury that the rich and the academically and athletically gifted individuals can obtain,� said Senator Roach. �Higher education is a basic necessity and must be provided in the same way we provide other basic necessities.�

Senator Roach, who is an award-winning poet, is a graduate of the University of Missouri and the University of Connecticut School of Law.

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Hija Chang
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Central State University class of 2021
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