President Sherrick addressed this letter to students who receive Monetary Award Program funds from the State of Illinois.
Each year thousands of qualified Illinois undergraduates depend upon the Monetary Award Program (MAP) to help fund the cost of college or university attendance. All of us began the 2015-2016 academic year anticipating the arrival of fall semester MAP dollars from Springfield. Unfortunately the holidays came and went without news regarding MAP. And so AU made a commitment to "fund" the MAP program with institutional dollars. We did the same thing this spring.
Now I am writing to ensure that you know that your university is prepared to do the same next year, if necessary. We will continue to honor MAP for those students who are qualified by the standards and deadlines set forth by our state. In fact, our Board of Trustees made this decision at a recent meeting and asked me to share with you this news. Like members of the faculty and staff, our board members understand the importance of helping you complete your degree on time. As we prepare to fulfill this promise to our students, we will continue to make sacrifices so that we can shift dollars to financial aid in your behalf.
My hope is that students won't notice many changes. All of us are committed to maintaining our usual high standard of quality and to ensuring that each student receives the personal attention that she or he needs to succeed. This is a period of uncertainty for all of the citizens of Illinois. Our leaders in Springfield have important issues to address, and I remain hopeful that they will do this effectively. In the meantime, we are Spartans and we will persevere.
As president, I have no higher calling than ensuring that you reach your educational goals. Our faculty, staff and trustees have the same priority. We are united on your behalf. Why? It's simple really. We believe in the "transformative power of learning" and we believe in you. So don't forget to file your FAFSA ASAP, but don't worry too much about MAP. Following the awarding rules and dates set forth by our state, AU will make it happen - for you!
Rebecca L. Sherrick, Ph.D.
President
Aurora University
For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid at 630-844-6190 or finaid@aurora.edu.