Hurricane Dorian: VA College Offers Free Semester To Bahamians

HAMPTON, VA — College students from the Bahamas displaced by Hurricane Dorian will have an opportunity to continue their studies free of charge at a Virginia college. According to reports, Hampton University is offering one free semester of tuition and housing as part of an agreement with the University of the Bahamas - North.

Students from the University of the Bahamas - North will be able to attend classes at Hampton for the fall 2019 semester, the university said in a statement. Students will receive room and board for that semester, and will have the option to stay at Hampton once the semester is over at regular rates for tuition and fees.

One of the top historically black universities in the world, Hampton has been a school of choice in the past for many residents of the Bahamas, according to the statement.

“I think this agreement is something that can be helpful to a great number of students and families, and is part of something I’ve tried to do my entire career – helping people to achieve and meet their goals,” Hampton University President Dr. William R. Harvey said in the statement.

Now a Category 1, Hurricane Dorian was a powerhouse Category 5 storm when it slammed the Bahamas over Labor Day Weekend and left an apocalyptic scene behind. The official death toll there now stands at 30, and is almost certain to climb as recovery efforts continue. Property damage, not including infrastructure and autos, could reach $7 billion.

The Associated Press contributed reporting.

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