Emergency Assistance Fund
Often, it can be the small things that make a major difference — funds to pay for books or those two final credits needed to graduate or help in covering an unforeseen expense that puts paying for that next semester just out of reach.
The College of Natural Science Undergraduate Assistance Fund, established in 2018 through the generosity of Give Green Day contributors to this initiative, is a current use fund that provides mini grants to students to help give them that “little extra” to get by so that they can continue pursuing their education and career aspirations.
To date, the fund—which began disbursements in April 2019—has provided 97 individual mini-grants, including funds that made it possible for two juniors to return to their education; helped a senior who needed assistance with food and rent for fall semester; and allowed a senior to repeat a course needed for graduation.
Benjamin Byrd: Small assist pays quantum dividends
When the lab that Benjamin Byrd had been working in for nearly two years ran out of funding for his paid position, he thought he’d have to give up the work he loved and find another job so he could pay for his schooling and living expenses. That’s when his academic advisor recommended that he apply to the College of Natural Science (NatSci) Undergraduate Emergency Assistance Fund. Because of donors who generously gave to establish and support the fund, Byrd is now on track to complete his undergraduate degree at MSU.
Selena Crummie: Removing roadblocks, managing risk
Selena Crummie was a junior at MSU when finances and other life circumstances presented a roadblock to finishing her education. She was going through a lot at the time and she and her advisor were thinking about they could navigate things so she could graduate on time. That’s when they found out about the College of Natural Science (NatSci) Undergraduate Emergency Assistance Fund. Thanks to donors who generously gave to establish and support the fund, Crummie is now on track to complete her undergraduate degree at MSU.
Aaliyah Jeter: No holds barred
Aaliyah Jeter was about to enter her senior year at MSU. But because of a remaining balance on her account, a “hold” prohibited her from enrolling in her classes. A meeting with her advisor led her to the NatSci Undergraduate Emergency Assistance Fund. The donors’ contributions to this fund helped her continue my education here at Michigan State. Because of their assistance, she was able to enroll in my senior classes and will graduate with my bachelor’s degree in chemistry this coming May.
Jesse Leahy-McGregor: To the stars and beyond
Last spring, Jesse Leahy-McGregor feared he’d have to skip fall semester at MSU and return to his hometown because of financial issues and life events. Then his research advisor and faculty mentor told him about the College of Natural Science (NatSci) Undergraduate Emergency Assistance Fund. Thanks to the donors who generously gave to establish and support the fund, Leahy-McGregor is now on track to complete his undergraduate degree at MSU in 2021.
Kevin Moore: A wealth of opportunities
Kevin Moore became ill during spring 2019 and was unable to earn the money he would need to continue taking classes the following semester. The Financial Aid Office recommended he talk to his college about scholarships—but applications would not open until January and he needed money for fall semester. That’s when he found out about the College of Natural Science (NatSci) Undergraduate Emergency Assistance Fund. Because of donors who generously gave to establish and support the fund, Moore is now on track to complete his undergraduate degree at MSU.