Today McMurry University is announcing a new financial aid program, Community Commitment, which will offer at minimum, half tuition for new undergraduates whose families have chosen careers in service. Students do not have to financially qualify, and additional need-based aid may be added. This meaningful and significant financial aid package honors families who have chosen careers in service and is built on the University’s core value of “Service as the measure of life.”
The Community Commitment is a program that supports a student whose parent, legal guardian, or spouse is currently employed full time in public service; as a first responder; in education, healthcare, or ministry; or with a nonprofit. If the employer’s website ends in .edu, .gov, or .org, the student is likely to qualify. Incoming freshmen and transfer students applying for the Fall of 2021 are eligible to receive the Community Commitment.
“Service above self is in the DNA of McMurry University,” said McMurry President Dr. Sandra S. Harper. “This important program will honor those who chose selfless service, whether they are serving the community through teaching, caring for or saving others, or the military. During the current COVID-19 crisis, awareness of the sacrifices of our community heroes has been heightened, and McMurry is excited to be able to offer a distinctive package to reward individuals for their commitment to others.”
McMurry University is the first university in the state of Texas to make a community commitment to families in service of others. According to GuideStar, there are 1,147 nonprofits in Taylor County. Add in schools, police, fire, and military, and the impact of this program is tremendous in Taylor County alone. The program is available to any student who wants to attend McMurry University, regardless of where they live.
As a private, faith-based university, McMurry University recognizes that community challenges are numerous, and there has never been a greater need for individuals dedicated to a life of service. McMurry University wants to provide financial support as it develops future leaders who can think critically, fight against oppression, understand our differences, and translate this knowledge into building a better society.
“McMurry University is a champion for better communities and for people who are building them,” said McMurry Vice President of Enrollment Grant Greenwood. “McMurry is the place to train for a life of service, and we believe this training and experience should be accessible to all who want it.” Greenwood added that McMurry University is making a simple commitment: “If a life of service runs in your immediate family, then we’ll cover at least half of your tuition.”
The Community Commitment adds to McMurry University’s intentional focus, which began in 1990 with the University’s servant leadership curriculum that guides students to develop a sense of purpose in their studies, careers, and contributions to community and society. This financial aid package advances the University’s core values: Christian faith as the foundation of life; Personal relationships as the catalyst for life; Learning as the journey of life; Excellence as the goal of life; and the foundational value, Service as the measure of life.