Posted: | June 7, 2021 01:47 PM |
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From: | Representative Emily Kinkead |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | 50th Anniversary of the Act 101 Program |
In 1971, the Pennsylvania General Assembly passed the Higher Education Equal Opportunity Act which established the Higher Education of the Disadvantaged Program with the vision of enhancing postsecondary education opportunities and achievements of undergraduate students from economically and educationally underserved backgrounds. Act 101, administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Agency (PHEAA), admits eligible students to the program based on their academic potential and motivation despite educational, economic, or cultural disadvantages. During 2019-20, the program served over 3,600 commonwealth students. The program is having a positive impact on the academic experiences of participating students as exemplified by higher cumulative grade point average in developmental courses, retention rates, and graduation rates. Many of the students that have been admitted to colleges because of Act 101 Programs and earned their degrees have returned to their communities in the Commonwealth, becoming taxpayers, and providing essential services, essentially breaking the cycle of poverty. I hope you will join me by co-sponsoring this resolution recognizing the 50th Anniversary of Act 101 of 1971. |