On February 11, WT President Walter V. Wendler announced The Region 16 Excellence Initiative to area school administrators. This new opportunity, offering a 50% reduction in tuition, is aimed to support students who have family members working at the college. The scholarship helps recognize the dedication of the faculty and staff, while also helping their relatives pursue a higher education.
“Our partnership with Region 16 reflects our roots as the primary university that prepares educators to graduate and succeed throughout our area,” Wendler said. “By extending this offer to all full-time employees and their dependents within Region 16, we are being responsive to the needs of the communities in our backyard.”
The tuition reduction allows eligible students to pursue one of many degrees at each academic level; this includes bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
According to College and Career Readiness Coordinator, Cenee Precure, this initiative is designed to help families, local school systems, and communities.
“By making college more affordable, this program should encourage individuals who already live and work in the Texas Panhandle to further their education and skills,” Precure said. “Hopefully, these individuals will then bring their knowledge, leadership, and experience back to their schools and communities, strengthening local districts and improving education for future students.”
Students who are interested in this program must first apply for admission to WT, then complete the Region 16 Excellence Initiative application each academic year. Their eligibility will be verified through the employee’s school district before the tuition reduction is applied.
Precure encourages all students to start preparing for opportunities like this early on.
“My advice to students is to start early, stay organized, and apply for as many scholarships as possible,” Precure said. “Most importantly, students should not get discouraged; every application is an opportunity, and persistence pays off.”
The Region 16 Excellence Initiative is another excellent way of expanding access to college, with many students and families across the Panhandle now being able to find affordable access to higher education.
