Trulaske launches Student Emergency Fund

The Trulaske College of Business recently launched a college-specific student emergency fund, which will provide financial assistance to students who encounter hardship that makes it difficult for them to pursue their business education.

Although the fund is not earmarked solely for challenges related to COVID-19, the pandemic did serve to inspire the fund’s creation.

“It came to light that students are experiencing hardships associated with the economic downturn,” said Jeremy Diener, executive director for advancement at the College of Business. “In these situations, it is important to the dean that we are able to provide assistance. Our supporters agreed the time was right to create this fund.”

The fund will provide targeted support in the form of short-term scholarships, emergency or temporary housing assistance, access to food, emergency transportation costs and more. Diener said the goal is to reach a funding level of $300,000, and that the Walker Foundation has announced it will provide a 50% match, up to $100,000.

Gay Albright, associate dean of undergraduate programs, is part of the three-person panel responsible for administering the funds. The panel is working to finalize its process for awarding scholarships, which includes an application or recommendation.

“We’re trying to get this moving quickly,” Albright said, adding that the fund already has a significant balance, ready for immediate distribution should need arise.

Faculty and staff who believe a student might be struggling should contact Albright to discuss next steps. Students may reach out to Albright directly also.

Diener said Trulaske alumni and friends have sensed the urgency behind creating this fund and have been quick to make donations.

“Student support is something that people identify with very quickly,” Diener said. “I continue to be humbled and impressed by the generosity of our alumni and friends.”

 

Make a gift to the Student Emergency Fund today!