Bracelets Support Scholarship

Appalachian State University’s Student Government Association is currently selling trendy bracelets to raise proceeds to fund a need-based scholarship for an Appalachian student.

The bracelets, which cost $3, are black and gold with “Appalachian State” printed on them.

SGA is selling the bracelets in its office in Plemmons Student Union.

Last week, the Tuition Committee proposed a $400 increase in tuition, and the U.S. House of Representatives is currently considering major financial aid cuts.

SGA President P. Jud Watkins considers the possible financial aid cuts to be the bigger picture, and what clubs and organizations on and off campus can do to help students to be an important piece of the smaller picture.

“If SGA can do something with a small budget like we have, then other organizations can form need-based scholarships, too,” Watkins said.

Ann Peacock, a financial aid counselor, applauds the action SGA is taking in this situation. Peacock works hands-on with Appalachian students’ financial situations on a daily basis.

“Financial aid is a vital part of our educational process,” Peacock said. “I think a scholarship should be available for every qualified student.”

The idea of forming a need-based scholarship was first presented last spring as part of Watkins and SGA Vice President Chris R. Pereira’s campaign platform. The ideas for fundraising the project were developed during the summer by Watkins and Director of Academic Affairs Joseph Henderson.

“I definitely think that more groups should start a scholarship for students,” Henderson said. “With the rising costs of tuition and the decrease in financial aid, students need all the help that they can get.”

SGA’s budget provided for the production costs of the bracelets, but when the bracelets are purchased, the money will go toward the scholarship.

There have been no requirements established yet for the scholarship, and SGA has not met with the Financial Aid office to determine anything yet.

That will be determined at a later date when SGA has determined how much the scholarship will be.

“I want other on- and off-campus groups to see what we’re doing and step up and help form need-based scholarships for our students,” Watkins said.

SGA is working to set up a contact table to sell the bracelets at Saturday’s football game against Western Carolina University.

“I’m going to buy one because I know [the money] goes to a scholarship,” Peacock said.

Reminderband gives you the ability to raise money for your school or cause and can help you find exactly what you need. There is more information on raising money for schools and scholarships here.

The original article can be found here.