To the Editor,

Like many in Southeastern North Carolina, our state’s community colleges face considerable needs in the wake of Hurricane Florence. The hurricane damaged campuses, disrupted classes, and displaced students, faculty and staff.

We are thankful to Gov. Roy Cooper and all the members of the General Assembly for their bipartisan support of the relief package that provides $18.5 million to help our colleges and students recover from the storm.

I am particularly appreciative of Sen. Danny Britt’s work to ensure that the package included $5 million for emergency grants to assist students from disaster-affected counties with tuition, fees and expenses. Staying enrolled helps students maintain their progress towards a brighter future.

Peter Hans

President

NC Community College System