Gov. Wolf visits ESU to discuss proposed new scholarship program

Governor Tom Wolf visited Kutztown University and East Stroudsburg University on March 4 to discuss the proposed Nellie Bly Scholarship Program, which will help at least 25,000 students in the state's university system earn a college degree while graduating with less debt.

The governor set out to tour all 14 state-owned universities in Pennsylvania. At East Stroudsburg University, Wolf led a discussion with faculty, administration, and students to discuss his proposed program to help thousands of lower- and middle-class students attend one of the 14 universities in the state system. Pedro Rivera, Secretary of Education, and Noe Ortega, Deputy Secretary of Education, joined Wolf during his visit to ESU.

"There is a student loan debt crisis across our country," said Wolf. "It's a burden on young people and their families that can last for years and holds them back. The Nellie Bly Scholarship Program will help young people to build lives in our communities rather than struggling to pay student loan bills every month."

The Nellie Bly Scholarship Program fills the gap after other aid programs so that thousands more students can afford college in the state system. With less college debt, Wolf said, graduates can buy a car and a home, start a family, and save for retirement.

"The program also strengthens our 14 public universities and creates a talented labor force that Pennsylvania needs to thrive," said Wolf.