Point Park University Launches Scholarship for Ohio Students Affected by SB 1

Point Park University, a private institution located in downtown Pittsburgh, has introduced a new scholarship initiative for Ohio students impacted by recent changes to public college programs. The Buckeye Fresh Start Scholarship is designed for students whose academic programs have been eliminated or restructured due to budget cuts driven by Senate Bill 1 (SB 1).

This scholarship offers merit awards ranging from $16,000 to $22,000 annually, alongside an additional $5,000 scholarship for those transferring from affected Ohio institutions. According to a statement from Point Park, the university aims to support students during a time of uncertainty and stress in Ohio’s higher education landscape.

Supportive Environment for Affected Students

The university emphasizes its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for transfer students. Point Park plans to expedite transfer credit evaluations and provide personalized counseling through dedicated transfer counselors and academic success coaches.

Marlin Collingwood, Vice President of Enrollment at Point Park, remarked, “The widespread elimination and restructuring of programs at Ohio’s public universities has significantly increased stress and uncertainty for students.” He added that the Buckeye Fresh Start Scholarship is a proactive response to help students achieve their academic goals affordably.

SB 1, which took effect in June 2023, mandates that public colleges eliminate programs that confer fewer than five degrees on average over any three-year period. This regulation has prompted significant program cuts across Ohio universities. For example, Ohio University announced the elimination of 11 undergraduate programs, while Cleveland State University revealed plans to cut 22 undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Ohio Universities Respond to Program Cuts

Despite these changes, Ohio universities have assured that current students will still have access to the programs, although they will suspend enrollment for new students. This has led to an increased urgency for students seeking alternatives, particularly in neighboring states.

Point Park University aims to fill this gap by providing a supportive academic home for those impacted. Collingwood noted, “Many of Point Park’s innovative academic programs in business, communications, the sciences, and the arts are thriving, even as similar programs are being cut or de-emphasized in Ohio.”

In addition, other institutions, such as Eastern Michigan University, are actively recruiting Ohio students, highlighting the differences in educational policies between states. EMU has launched social media campaigns emphasizing an inclusive environment free from the restrictions imposed by SB 1.

Michigan’s governor and legislature maintain a political landscape that contrasts sharply with Ohio’s current educational legislation, which has sparked debates about diversity, equity, and inclusion at public universities.

The Buckeye Fresh Start Scholarship represents an opportunity for Ohio students to pursue their academic aspirations in a supportive and robust environment at Point Park University, as well as a potential shift in the educational dynamics in the region.