Financial Aid

The philosophy at ECC is that any individual who wishes to attend the institution should not be prohibited from doing so because of a lack of financial resources. Although the primary responsibility for financing an education remains with students and their families, the college participates in financial aid programs designed to supplement a student’s or family’s contribution when there is documented financial need. Students who complete the financial aid application process are considered for all types of federal and state financial aid for which they may be eligible. ECC Scholarships are awarded to students based on academic promise or achievement. Federal and state financial aid is awarded to students without regard to their sex, sexual orientation, race, color, disability, or national origin. Students always have the right to accept or decline all or any specific type of financial assistance they are offered.

Federal And State Financial Aid Programs

Federal Pell Grant Program

Federal Pell Grants are awarded to eligible students based on demonstrated financial need. Students must successfully complete high school or earn a GED to be considered. The Federal Pell Grant program is the cornerstone of all of the federal student aid programs. During the 13-14 school year, approximately 2800 students received Federal Pell Grants that helped pay for their tuition and books at ECC. Pell Grants are not subject to repayment unless recipients do not complete their respective terms of enrollment.

Federal Pell Grant awards are calculated based on a federal formula that takes into consideration the students’ family financial circumstances, and the students’ Costs of Attendance (COA) as determined by ECC. In addition, the award amount is based on the number of hours in which the student enrolls. In order to apply for a Federal Pell Grant, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Department of Education processes the applications and sends Student Aid Reports (SAR) directly to students or instructs them on how to access their SARs online. ECC receives an electronic confirmation of the SAR. The SAR provides a calculated Expected Family Contribution (EFC). A student’s Pell eligibility is based on a combination of ECC’s costs and the family contribution.

Per federal regulations, a student may only receive Pell Grants for the equivalent of 12 semesters of full-time enrollment, or until the student completes the requirements for a Bachelor’s degree - whichever comes first. Students are advised to monitor the number of semesters they receive Pell Grants, particularly if they plan to pursue four-year degrees after leaving ECC.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) Program

Students who receive Pell Grants may also be eligible to receive Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. FSEOGs are not subject to repayment unless recipients do not complete their respective terms of enrollment. The amount of the grant is based on student financial need and the availability of funds. The minimum award is $300.00. Students are not required to be enrolled full-time to receive an FSEOG. Priority for FSEOG must be given to students with the lowest Expected Family Contributions (EFC) per federal regulation. To be considered for FSEOG, students should complete the FAFSA as soon after January 1 as possible. For example, to apply for the 17-18 school year that begins in the fall students need to complete the FAFSA after January 1, 2017.

Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program

The Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for eligible students to earn money to help pay college expenses while attending classes at least part-time. Students participating in the program are employed in the library, laboratories, administrative and faculty offices, and various departments of the college. On average, students work approximately 10 to 15 hours per week, earning $7.50 per hour. Students employed under the FWS program are expected to be responsible and reliable. Students interested in FWS should contact an ECC Financial Aid Office on either the Tarboro or Rocky Mount campuses to discuss the application process. Work-Study applications are available online at http://www.edgecombe.edu/pdfs/financial-aid/forms/work-study-application.pdf

Federal Direct Student Loan (FDSL) Program

Students can borrow in the FDSL programs to help meet their costs of attending ECC. All prospective borrowers must complete FAFSAs and have the results released to ECC. Loan eligibility is determined after a student’s eligibility for non-repayable types of aid is considered. Subsidized FDSLs are need-based. The maximum amount a first-year student may borrow (“first-year” is defined as having successfully completed 32 credit hours or less) in a subsidized loan is $3,500 per year. For a second-year student (“second-year” is defined as having successfully completed a minimum of 32 hours) the subsidized loan maximum is $4,500. Students must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit hours for the semester to receive FDSLs. Since this is a loan that must be repaid students are required to complete promissory notes and take part in counseling interviews before the loans can be disbursed. Loan repayment begins 6 months after students cease to be enrolled in at least 6 hours. This includes students who withdraw from college or graduate. While borrowers are in school, the interest (4.66 % fixed for loans first disbursed between July 1, 2014, and June 30, 2015) is paid by the federal government.

There is also an Unsubsidized FDSL Program. For additional FDSL information please go to http://www.edgecombe.edu/financial-aid/69#loan and www.studentloans.gov

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Other Sources Of Assistance

Vocational Rehabilitation

North Carolina residents who have a disability should contact the Vocational Rehabilitation Division of the Department of Health and Human Services in Raleigh, N.C. Out of state residents with disabilities should contact their local Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors. Eligible students may be able to receive financial assistance through Vocational Rehabilitation to help them attend ECC.

N.C. Veterans Scholarship

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers scholarship assistance to North Carolina children of deceased or disabled veterans. In addition to this, scholarship support can be extended to dependents of certain veterans who are listed as POW/MIA. Eligible students can visit the North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs website at www.doa.nc.gov/vets or write to the North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs, Assistant Secretary, 1315 Mail Service Center, Albemarle Building Suite 1065, Raleigh, NC 27699, for information. They may also contact a local Veterans Service Officer in their county of residence.

Workforce Investment Act (WIA)

Financial assistance is offered through WIA. All individuals must meet WIA eligibility requirements to be enrolled and receive financial assistance. The WIA program is designed to assist individuals who require additional occupational skills training for employment. Services provided by the WIA program may include financial assistance with tuition, fees, books, equipment, and supplies, as well as personal services such as counseling, job development, job coaching, and follow-up assistance. Participants are required to follow strict program guidelines and regulations.

North Carolina Community College Grant (NCCCG) Program

This is a need-based financial aid program offered by the state to North Carolina residents. In addition to being state residents, students must meet the following criteria: (1) be admitted to an eligible program of study, (2) be federal student aid applicants (3) meet satisfactory academic progress requirements as defined by the ECC Financial Aid Office and (4) meet other criteria as may be required by the program. (5) students must be enrolled in at least 6 hours and be an NC resident to be eligible.

North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship

This is a need-based state-funded program for North Carolina residents. Students must meet the following criteria: (1) be admitted to an eligible program of study, (2) be federal student aid applicants, (3) meet satisfactory academic progress requirements as defined by the ECC Financial Aid Office, (4) meet other criteria as required by the program, (5) students must be enrolled in at least 6 hours and be an NC resident to be eligible.

North Carolina Targeted Assistance Program

This program provides funding for North Carolina residents who 1) enroll or intend to enroll in high demand/low enrollment programs or 2) who enroll in less than 6 hours for a semester To be considered, students must complete a FAFSA and have an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) of 800-4000. Students are limited to receiving $30 per credit hour in this program.

ECC Emergency Loan Program

This program provides short-term loans to students who need assistance paying their ECC tuition and fees. Loans must be repaid prior to the end of the term in which they are received. Generally speaking, students are required to complete FAFSAs before requesting emergency loans.

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Scholarships

The college offers scholarships each year, totaling more than $100,000. Requirements for scholarships vary; however, the primary criteria include financial need, scholastic ability, specified program of study, residency status, and participation in community activities. Scholarship applications are available on-line at edgecombe.edu, under Financial Aid, and the menu listed Forms.  

Application forms must be returned to a financial aid office by the established deadline available in the financial aid offices. Students who submit incomplete applications are not considered. Most scholarships are awarded during the fall, and the initial scholarship disbursements are made during the fall semester. The following is a listing of scholarships currently offered by the college. Scholarship opportunities may be added after the Student Handbook is published. If that is the case, new scholarship information will be publicized on campus.

Golden Leaf Scholarship

This program provides funding for students or their immediate families who are adversely affected by economic circumstances or conditions. Applications are available in the financial aid office. Funds are limited.

Wells Fargo Scholarship

Applicants must be full-time (taking a minimum of 12 credit hours), second-year students enrolled in technical curriculums. The successful applicants must also demonstrate financial need and scholastic promise. Applications are available in the financial aid office. Funds are limited.

Private Scholarships

The college offers numerous private scholarships each year, totaling more than $100,000 awarded annually. Requirements for scholarships vary; however, the primary criteria include financial need, scholastic ability, specified program of study, residency status, and participation in community activities. To apply for scholarships, students must obtain application forms from the college’s Financial Aid Office. Application forms indicating the scholarships for which students are eligible must be returned to that office by the announced deadline. Incomplete applications are not considered. Most scholarships are awarded during the fall months, and the first award payments are made during the fall semester. Students should see the Financial Aid Office for deadlines. Listed below are the scholarships available to eligible applicants as of the publication of this catalog.

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Named Endowed Scholarships

ACT 1 Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1996 to honor the John and Elretha Bryant family from Tarboro, this scholarship is awarded to students in Business Administration, Business Computer Programming, and Microcomputer Systems Technology.

ALLTEL Communications Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1996 when the company was known as 360 Communications, this scholarship is awarded to students in Business Administration.

Tarboro Lions Club Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1987, this endowed scholarship was formed to demonstrate the Lions Club’s appreciation for public participation in the Club’s fundraising projects. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum, but students who are blind or/and visually impaired or children of the blind or visually impaired are given first consideration.

Tarboro Student Aid Association Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1998, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. This association was established in the 1940s by civic and fraternal clubs and organizations to provide loans to graduates of Tarboro High School who planned to attend college. When this group dissolved in 1998, members established this endowed scholarship at ECC.

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 to support the pursuit of training in the Allied Health field.

Mike Alford Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2002 to honor local resident and author, Mike Alford, whose personal challenges with cancer and an amputation serve as an encouragement to students in the Allied Health field.

Berry L. Anderson, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1988 by the Anderson family, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. Mr. Anderson was a founder of ECC and served on the Board of Trustees for 19 years.

Baker Mabrey Bass Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2002 by the Edgecombe-Tar River Foundation and Mabry’s brother, Bill Bass, to honor Mr. Bass’s 40 years as editor of the local paper, The Daily Southerner. He contributed many humorous columns over the years and especially loved and worked to promote and preserve the Tar River. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

T. Wes Bailey Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2012 by Jean Bailey in memory of her late husband, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of excellence in manufacturing to students in a manufacturing curriculum.

Guy E. and Alice A. Barnes Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1997 to honor Mr. Barnes and his 25 years of service on the Board of Trustees. He was also a founder of the college and served the community in many civic, political, and religious endeavors. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Robert E. Barnhill, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2000, this scholarship honors a founding member of ECC and a great community leader. Mr. Barnhill was instrumental in establishing the structure and bylaws of ECC. He developed one of the largest privately-owned businesses in North Carolina, Barnhill Contracting Company. He was a modest man and helped his community by also establishing the Tarboro Community Outreach Center and working for the Boy Scouts of America. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Kim Bell, RHIA, Health Information Technology Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2010 to aid a student in the Health Information Technology Program.

Francis E. Blackwell Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2000 to honor a local businessman and ECC trustee, this scholarship is awarded to students in Business Administration or Allied Health.

Joel K. Bourne/Edgecombe County Veterans Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2002 by Joel Bourne to honor past, present, and future military servicemen and women from Edgecombe County, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

JoAnn Brown Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1997 by Mrs. Brown’s husband, the Honorable Frank R. Brown, and ECC at the time of her retirement. After teaching in the Tarboro public schools for 16 years, Mrs. Brown served as executive director of the Edgecombe Community College Foundation from 1986 until 2000. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

A. R. Burnette Family Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1995 by Mr. Archie R. Burnette, Jr., this scholarship honors his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.R. Burnette, and his sister, Doris. This family was outstanding in farming, civic affairs, and education in Edgecombe County. Doris Burnette was a teacher in the Tarboro City and Edgecombe County schools her entire professional life and was recognized and respected as one of the best educators of her time. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Johnnena Poulos Cannon Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2004 by family, friends, and co-workers to honor the memory of a much loved and devoted instructor at ECC. The scholarship is awarded to students in a math-related curriculum or college transfer students with the intent of majoring in math.

John Cherry Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2004 by the Tarboro Association of Saltwater Sportsmen to honor the memory of John Cherry, son of Police Chief and Mrs. Robert Cherry. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Robert “Bob” Cole Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2003 to honor the memory of ECC math/science instructor Bob Cole, the scholarship is awarded to students in Radiography, Respiratory Care, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology, Medical Transcription, or College Transfer with the intent to major in Biology.

Glen and Patricia Daughtridge Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2013 to financially assist an ECC student in his or her educational endeavors. Mr. Daughtridge’s mother, a first-grade teacher who taught over 500 students to read, instilled in him the importance of education and helping others. Patricia Daughtridge was also an educator for many years. A student in any curriculum may receive this scholarship.

Stanley L. Daughtridge Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by Mrs. Stanley L. Daughtridge in 1997. Mr. Daughtridge taught at South Edgecombe High School for 9 years and then worked for 28 years for the United States Soil Conservation Service. He served in many professional and civic organizations. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Emily “Mimi” Havens Edmondson Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by the family in 1999 to honor her memory. A native of Tarboro, “Mimi” gave unselfishly of her time and energy in helping others. The scholarship is awarded to students in Respiratory Care.

Ronald G. Ellis, Jr. Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2008 by Earl Roberson, this scholarship is awarded to a student in any curriculum. This scholarship honors Mr. Ellis’s many years of unselfish service to others.

Erich Family Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2014 by the family of ECC instructor Fred Erich to assist a financially struggling student at ECC.

Jason Iam Erich Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2009 by parents Norma and Fred Erich and friends, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Cindy Fiore Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1993 by family and friends to honor the life of a very special student and nurse, this scholarship is awarded to a second-level nursing student.

Dr. Thomas S. Fleming Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1999 by Dr. Fleming’s wife, Louise Fleming, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. Dr. Fleming, who died in July 2007, joined the ECC Board of Trustees in 1971 and served as its chairman from 1978 until his death.

Judge George M. Fountain Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1998 by Judge Fountain’s wife, Nellie Lanier Fountain. A native of Tarboro, Judge Fountain began his law practice with his father in 1935. After serving in WWII, he continued to practice law and was appointed Special Superior Court Judge. He was later elected to Resident Superior Court Judge of the 7th Judicial District, where he served until his retirement in 1982. He was the first Superior Court judge to serve in all 100 counties of North Carolina and became known as one of the best judges to serve this state. The scholarship is awarded to students in the Criminal Justice program.

Nina W. Fountain Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 to honor the long service and dedication of Mrs. Nina W. Fountain to the college in many ways. Mrs. Fountain served as President of the ECC Foundation Board of Directors from its establishment in 1982 until 2004. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Dr. Hartwell H. Fuller, Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1998, this scholarship honors Dr. Fuller, a lifelong educator who taught at Rocky Mount Senior High School, Wilson Technical College, and Pitt Community College. In 1968, Dr. Fuller joined ECC as Director of Adult Education. In the years that followed, he also served as Dean of Instruction and Vice President. In 1994, he was named President of ECC, where he served until his retirement in 2004. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Dr. Hartwell H. Fuller, Jr. Endowed Merit Scholarship. Established in 2011, these scholarships are awarded by merit to two Edgecombe County public high school scholars. These students, one entering an allied health program and one entering the college transfer program, receive the full cost of an associate’s degree, including in-state tuition, books, and a laptop computer.

Annie Louise Gaynor Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by the family in 1989. Miss Gaynor became known as the “Red Cross Nurse” because of her deep commitment and service to the Rocky Mount Chapter from 1933 until her death. After her retirement, Miss Gaynor continued to serve others and in 1982 was the first recipient of the Distinguished Service Award of Nash General Hospital Volunteer Association. The scholarship is awarded to a second-level nursing student.

Vivian B. Godwin Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by her family in 1996 to honor Mrs. Godwin, one of the first employees at ECC. This scholarship is awarded to students in the Cosmetology program.

Ernest and Helen Goff Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2012 by sons Julian and Milton Goff to honor their parents and help financially struggling students.

Jack Havens Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1991, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. Mr. Havens was a founding father of ECC and served as the first chairman of the ECC Board of Trustees.

Dr. Geraldine Jordan Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established by Dr. Jordan in 1997, this scholarship is awarded to a second-level nursing student. Dr. Jordan chaired the Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson, and Halifax Associate Degree Nursing Program from 1975 to 1983.

Carolyn Weeks Kalamajka Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1996 by family, friends, and coworkers to honor Mrs. Kalamajka, an employee of Nash General Hospital for almost 19 years. Before joining the hospital, Mrs. Kalamajka attended and graduated from ECC in 1977. The scholarship is awarded to students in the Nursing program.

Major Linwood Thomas Lewis, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 by Major Lewis’s daughter, Judy Silveri. He was a well-recognized and much-admired member of the Tarboro Police Department. The scholarship is awarded to students in Criminal Justice or other law enforcement programs.

Gladys C. Harrison Matthewson Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2002 by Mrs. Matthewson’s daughter, Gladys Harrison Matthewson, and the Union Baptist Church. Mrs. Matthewson, born in 1896 in Princeville, was a kind, gentle, and compassionate woman. She valued education and taught in the Edgecombe County Negro School System until 1930. This scholarship is awarded to students in the Early Childhood curriculum.

Lacy and Grace G. McBryde Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1997 to encourage students to pursue their educational goals, this scholarship is awarded to students in the College Transfer or Nursing program.

Charles B. McIntyre Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1995 by family and friends, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Norman T. Parker, Jr. Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2002 by Mr. Parker’s daughter and son-in-law, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Berry Pittman, Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2010 by the Pittman family to honor the memory of Berry Pittman, Jr., a third-generation farmer in Edgecombe County, who dedicated his life to the family farm, this scholarship is awarded to a student in Collision Repair & Refinishing Technology.

General Henry Hugh Shelton Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1999, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. A native of Speed, General Shelton became the 14th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1997.

Charles Sherrick, Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established by Mrs. Sherrick in 2011 to help a student in the Facility Maintenance Worker, Automotive, or Electrical curriculum.

Tony and Judy Silveri Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2014 by Mr. and Mrs. Silveri, to fulfill their desire to help area students reach their educational goals. They realize that going to school, often while working and raising a family, creates great financial stress. They hope this scholarship aids in reducing this stress and encourages them to persevere.

Vivian Patterson Smith Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established for disabled students.

Carl W. Stephens, Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1995 on the untimely death of the hard-working 28-year-old radiography student, Carl Stephens, Jr. This endowment funds an annual scholarship for a deserving student in the Radiography program.

Mary Thigpen Strickland Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship was established for a student in the first-year Associate Degree Nursing program.

Eddie Walker Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1990 to honor a former Business Administration instructor at ECC, this scholarship is awarded to students in the Business Administration program.

Veryl Wood Memorial Endowed Scholarship. This nursing scholarship was established in 1992 to honor this exceptional nurse.

Sylvia “Red” Baker York Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was established by family and friends in 1999 to honor Mrs. York, a Tarboro native who spent most of her professional career in Raleigh and became the senior loan officer with Crestar Mortgage. She was recognized as one of the most productive and respected loan officers in the Raleigh area. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

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Named Community Scholarships

Buchan Club Scholarship. New in 2014, this scholarship comes from a group of retirees from Lowes Company, Inc., who provide scholarships to deserving community college students in selected schools in North Carolina. Members are proud to help recipients gain skills to enable them to enjoy the same success so many Lowe’s retirees have enjoyed.

Corporate Scholarships. Each year the Edgecombe Community College Foundation conducts a golf tournament to raise much-needed scholarship dollars. These scholarships are awarded to students in any curriculum.

Edgecombe Garden Club Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2003 to support education in Edgecombe County. The scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Edgecombe-Nash Retired School Personnel. This scholarship is awarded to a second-year college transfer student with the intent to major in elementary or secondary education.

H&R Block Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2011 by Proctor Kidwell in memory of his mother, Louise Proctor Kidwell. A hard-working accounting student is awarded this scholarship.

Hammer Chiropractic, Tarboro, Scholarship. Radiology plays a large part in the diagnosis of chiropractic care. For this reason, Dr. Dimpel Patel wants to support the radiology program at ECC by awarding this scholarship to a radiology student.

Junior Guild of Rocky Mount Scholarship. Established in 1995, this service club scholarship is awarded to a woman in any curriculum.

Rocky Mount Business and Professional Women’s Organization Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to women who are 25 years old or older and are going back to school to enter a new field or better their careers.

Rocky Mount Garden Club Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Rocky Mount Kiwanis Club Scholarship. Established in 1992, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum. A focus on education by this club results in an annual scholarship to ECC.

State Employees Credit Union Scholarships. Established in 2005, these scholarships encourage excellence by supporting student achievement.

Sunshine Hair Design Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2004 by business owner Renee Owens. Ms. Owens completed her cosmetology training at ECC and was able to establish a thriving business in this community shortly after completion. Ms. Owens wishes to support other cosmetology students with this annual scholarship.

Tarboro Kiwanis Club Scholarship. The Kiwanis Club is an international service organization of men and women who share the common goal of community and world improvement. Established in 1990, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Tarboro Pilot Club Scholarship. This nursing scholarship was established in 1997 by the Tarboro Pilot Club. This active service club focuses on the education and prevention of brain injuries. The Pilot Club conducts many activities throughout the year, such as blood drives, an Autism Camp, and programs at nursing homes and in classrooms. This scholarship is awarded to first or second-year nursing students.

Telco Credit Union Scholarship. Telco Credit Union recognizes the importance of education and rewards a member who is a student at ECC in any curriculum.

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital Aux. Volunteers Scholarship. This volunteer organization provides not only many needed services for patients at Vidant Edgecombe Hospital but also a scholarship each year for a deserving nursing student. The first scholarship was awarded in 2002.

Wells Fargo Bank Scholarship. Established in 1970, this scholarship provides financial assistance to students in any curriculum.

Woodmen of the World Scholarship. Established in 1994, this scholarship is awarded to second-year nursing students.

Thomas L. Boyette Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2004 to honor Mr. Boyette’s 38 years of service to Superior Essex. This scholarship is awarded to students in the Electrical Electronics program.

JnR Gallagher Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2014 to support students in the Radiography program. Mrs. Raquel Gallagher graduated in Radiography several years ago and wants to encourage other Radiography students to work hard and not get discouraged.

Gravely Scholarships. One of the oldest private scholarship funds in the twin county area, this scholarship provides funding for students at ECC, Nash Community College, and Wesleyan College.

Thomas W. Hatchel, Sr. Memorial Scholarship. Affectionately known as the “Sparkplug Scholarship,” this scholarship was established in 2014 by Thomas Hatchel, Jr. and family in memory of his father, to provide full funding for a student in the Automotive Systems Technology program. This scholarship provides tuition and books for the three-semester diploma program. Upon completion, the student will receive a tool kit to help as he/she enters the workforce.

Mary Ferebee Howard Memorial Nursing Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2013 to provide a nursing scholarship for an ECC student. Miss Howard, born in 1913, attended St. Mary’s College in Raleigh and joined the American Red Cross in 1942. Upon returning home to Tarboro after WWII, she wrote her book, “No Drums, No Trumpets,” recounting her adventures. She went back to school and received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Art degrees from East Carolina University and taught school for many years in Tarboro and Rocky Mount.

Kieya Shantay Hyman Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2013 when Kieya lost her battle with breast cancer at the age of 26. Kieya Hyman was a huge supporter of higher education and always encouraged friends and family to pursue education and training whenever possible. This scholarship is for a student in the Cosmetology program.

Medical Assisting Merit Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2012 to recognize a high achieving Medical Assisting student. This student is hardworking, diligent, and strives to excel in the rigors of the medical assisting program.

Murdock Webbing Scholarship. Established in 2003 to recognize the importance of education and training in obtaining good jobs and supporting families, this scholarship is awarded to students in any curriculum.

Dorothy Pope Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2010 by family and friends in honor of Mrs. Pope’s dedication to the education and training of young children. This scholarship goes to an Early Childhood Education student who would like to make a difference in the lives of young children.

Alicia Dupree Revis Surgical Technology Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2010 to support a Surgical Technology student at ECC.

Larry N. Stroud Academic Scholarship for Information Technology Studies. This scholarship was established in 2007 upon Mr. Stroud’s retirement from ECC as the Director of Computer Services. This scholarship is an academic scholarship which recognizes excellence by a student in Information Technology Studies.

Fred Lewis Tolson Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2014 by his wife, Amy Dunn Tolson, to honor a well-known Edgecombe county born architect. Mr. Tolson was the founder and president of Architects Tolson Associates in Raleigh for more than 30 years and designed the Thomas Fleming Building on the Tarboro campus. A student in the Electrical Systems Technology program may receive this scholarship.

Joe Webb Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2002 to honor a 30-year instructor at ECC, this scholarship will aid a student in any curriculum.

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Eligibility Requirements

Financial aid is awarded primarily on the basis of need. In addition, financial assistance depends on the availability of financial resources. To be considered for financial aid, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible program of study at ECC on at least a half-time basis (In some cases, students may receive financial aid for less than half-time enrollment.)
2. Be citizens or eligible non-citizens of the United States with a valid Social Security number
3. Demonstrate financial need
4. Have a high school diploma or GED certificate
5. Be making satisfactory progress in the course of study being pursued

If students qualify for financial aid, they receive an award letter. The award letter is not a guarantee of funds; therefore, it is important that students understand the terms and conditions of the award. They should review the award carefully.

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Application Procedure

Currently Enrolled Students

Financial aid awards are made for one academic year at a time; therefore, it is necessary for students to reapply for federal aid each year. In order to remain eligible for aid, they must meet the following criteria:

1. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1.
2. Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Students are required to complete at least 67 percent of all attempted hours of course work and must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 - a “C” average.

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Deadlines For Submitting The Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Students should submit their FAFSA early. For priority consideration, submit the application by March 15th of each year. Awards offered to students meeting the priority deadline and determined eligible, may receive the North Carolina Student Incentive Grant and/or the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant or both in addition to the federal Pell Grant.

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Notification of Award Decisions

Students are notified of award decisions for the academic year typically in the summer (usually June). Awards for students beginning in semesters other than fall are generally made a few weeks prior to the start of that semester.

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Financial Aid Refunds

Students who have been awarded financial aid may have credit balances after their tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other required charges have been paid for the semester. For those students, refunds will be processed each semester. Please go to http://www.edgecombe.edu/financial-aid-disbursements for additional information.

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Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy (SAP)

Federal regulations require students to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) towards the completion of an eligible degree, diploma, or certificate programs. This policy applies to Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study (FWS), and Federal Direct Student Loans (Subsidized, and Unsubsidized). In addition, the SAP policy applies to the North Carolina State Grant program as well.

SAP is reviewed at the end of each semester to determine financial aid eligibility for the next semester of enrollment. All hours previously attempted are considered in determining SAP; therefore a student’s complete academic history is reviewed even if the student did not previously receive financial aid. Students who have never received financial aid may be placed on financial aid warning based on having a Cumulative GPA below a 2.0 or having completed less than 67% of the hours previously attempted. Students who have attempted more than 150% of the hours required to complete their current active, academic program go into a Suspension status.

Transfer students are required to submit official transcripts from ALL previously attended colleges, regardless of whether or not they have received financial aid. Official transcripts must be submitted to the Edgecombe CC Office of Admissions. Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted.

You are encouraged to familiarize yourself with the details of the ECC SAP Policy by going to http://www.edgecombe.edu/pdfs/financial-aid/satisfactory-academic-progress-policy.pdf

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Appeal Process For Probationary Semester

Any student whose financial aid eligibility has been suspended has the right to appeal. An appeal must be based on significant mitigating circumstances that seriously impacted academic performance.

The student should submit a written appeal to the Financial Aid Office using the SAP Appeals form. The forms are available in the Office of Student Financial Aid or may be downloaded from the Financial Aid Homepage.

1. Answer all questions accurately and as thoroughly as possible.
2. Clearly state how the student intends to meet progress standards.
3. Include a copy of the student’s proposed schedule.
4. Students are strongly advised to submit third party documentation supporting significant mitigating circumstances. For example, in case of significant medical issues, documentation may require medical reports and signed statements by physicians regarding the circumstances.

The appeal form and supporting documentation submitted by the student will be forwarded to the Financial Aid Appeals Committee. A student who wants to make his/her presentation to the committee personally must request in writing a letter submitted with the appeal form.

The Financial Aid Appeals Committee will deny an appeal submitted without adequate documentation.

Please note that merely filing an appeal does NOT guarantee continued eligibility for financial aid.

The Financial Aid Appeals Committee reviews the appeal in 7 business days. Students will be notified of the committee’s decision. The preferred method of notification is electronic; the decision notice is sent to the student’s MyEdge e-mail account. The decision of the Financial Aid Appeals Committee is final, and no further appeals are allowed.

If the appeal is denied, the student may reestablish financial aid eligibility for subsequent semesters ONLY by taking courses, without the benefit of financial aid, until she/he complies with all components of the ECC satisfactory academic progress policy (67% completion rate and 2.0 minimum cumulative GPA).

If the appeal is approved, the student regains financial aid eligibility for one probationary semester. During the probationary semester and all subsequent semesters, the student must achieve a 67% completion rate and maintain a term GPA of 2.0. Failure to do so will result in the suspension of financial aid after which the student will regain eligibility ONLY by taking courses, without the benefit of financial aid, until she/he complies with all components of the ECC satisfactory academic progress policy (67% completion rate and 2.0 minimum cumulative GPA).

Composition of the Financial Aid Committee

1. Three full-time faculty members nominated by the Vice President of Instruction.
2. One Student Services Counselor nominated by the Vice President of Student Services.
3. The Director of Financial Aid as an ex-officio member.

The President has the authority to accept or reject the nominated members and alternatives to the Financial Aid Committee. The Financial Aid Appeals Committee serves for a period of one academic year. Alternative faculty and/or counselors will be nominated to serve if a conflict of interest exists. The President of the College will appoint a Chair for the committee from the three faculty members or the Student Service Counselor. One faculty member will represent each academic division. As an ex-officio member, the Director of Financial Aid will not vote.

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Veterans’ Affairs

Role of the Office of Veterans’ Affairs

The Office of Veterans’ Affairs serves to help assimilate veterans into the campus community and its environment. The office provides a myriad of services all designed to assist veterans in the pursuit of their educational objectives.

Assistance begins by helping veterans select a program of study which is suitable to their aptitudes, interests, and abilities. Once a program has been selected and veterans have been accepted by the college, they are assisted in completing their paperwork in order to be certified by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Prior to certification, official transcripts from high school and all post-secondary training attempted must be submitted and evaluated in the order that credit for previous training may be granted where appropriate.

Students must submit a certified copy of their DD-214 (Report of Discharge) or DD2384 (NOBE) and a 22-1990 (Application for Benefits). After completing the original application and providing supporting documents, veterans must be certified by this office. This certification must show complete identifying information, file number, course name, previous credit allowed, enrollment period, expected graduation date, and additional information as needed.

Veterans who are experiencing academic difficulties in degree/diploma programs are advised to request tutorial assistance, which is provided free of charge. Veterans whose average falls below a two-point-zero (2.0) or “C” average GPA are placed on probation and are so advised in a probation letter. Veterans who fail to make satisfactory progress are terminated (ECC termination letter) and so advised by the college and the Veterans Administration.

The ECC Office of Veterans’ Affairs makes referrals to local and state organizations such as the Employment Security Commission, VA County Service Officer, Vocational Rehabilitation, the Department of Social Services, and the Health Department, when possible, to accommodate the special needs of veterans.

NC Veterans Scholarship

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers scholarship assistance to North Carolina children of deceased or disabled veterans or of certain veterans who were listed in a POW/MIA status. Eligible students should write to the N.C. Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Raleigh, N.C., for information or contact the Veteran’s Affairs counselor for more details.

ECC provides training under Public Law 358, G.I. Bill ®, effective June 1966; Public Law 634, the children of deceased or disabled veterans; Public Law 894, disabled veterans; and Public Law 98-525. If you or your spouse is a veteran, veterans’ educational benefits may be available. Information is available at www.gibill.va.gov or by calling 1-888-442-4551 or contact the Veterans’ Affairs counselor at the college.

Veterans’ Counseling

The college programs are approved for the training of veterans. Veterans and eligible veterans’ dependents who wish to pursue their education under the G.I. Bill ® must be counseled at the college by the Veterans’ Counselor.

Satisfactory Progress Policy for Veterans

The Veterans Administration regulations require that veterans maintain satisfactory progress in order to continue receiving their educational benefits. A detailed description of the college’s policy concerning satisfactory progress follows:

1. All students are required to have a minimum of two-point-zero (2.0) averages for graduation.
2. When veterans fail to maintain a two-point-zero (2.0) grade point average (GPA), they are placed on academic probation for the following semester of enrollment.
3. At the end of a two-semester probationary period, veterans who do not have a two-point-zero (2.0) cumulative grade point average (CGPA), counting all subjects undertaken from the original enrollment, or who have withdrawn during their probationary period, have their benefits terminated for unsatisfactory progress. Veterans who have their benefits terminated for unsatisfactory progress must raise their average to the minimum required for graduation before being recertified for educational benefits.

Veterans’ Educational Assistance

1. Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 35 of Title 38) entitles dependents of a veteran who died of a service-connected disability or who has a total disability arising from a service-connected disability to receive benefits from the Veterans Administration.
2. The Post-Vietnam Era Veterans’ Act under Chapter 32, Title 38, provides educational assistance for veterans who saved money to be matched. The program is for veterans who entered the military service on or after January 1, 1977.
3. The Selected Reserve Educational Program, Chapter 1606, provides educational assistance for service in the Selected Reserve.
4. Chapter 30, also known as the Montgomery G.I. Bill ®, covers those persons who entered active duty after June 30, 1985. GED preparation is not covered under Chapter 30.

Students initiate proceedings by contacting their local Veterans’ Affairs office. The Student Services Department is the clearinghouse on campus for veterans’ affairs.

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