OPINION:
As Democrats lament the cost of higher education, and parents across the country open savings accounts and apply for financial aid packages so they can afford their children’s college tuition, illegal immigrants at the University of California will get millions in school-sanctioned assistance.
The university announced $25.2 million in support for undocumented students through 2019, according to a press release from the school Wednesday. Janet Napolitano, former Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, heads the school system, and has made illegal outreach a priority of hers.
“We are committed to continuing a path forward for undocumented students at the University of California,” Mrs. Napolitano said in the release. “This funding will further strengthen the university’s undocumented student initiative, and help ensure that these students receive the support and resources they need to succeed.”
The school will dedicate $8.4 million annually for loans to illegal immigrant students in the UC system, including a “DREAM Loan Program,” that will get $5 million for three years. Under current federal law, illegal immigrants can’t receive federal loans.
UC will give another $2.5 million away in fellowships and other financial support including funds for textbooks, the school said. In addition, $900,000 will be given to UC’s Undocumented Legal Services Center, to help illegals find their footing in the U.S.
“From the earliest days of her presidency, Janet Napolitano has acted to ensure that our undocumented students are on equal footing with others seeking to fulfill their aspirations at UC campuses,” said UC Board of Regents Chairman Monica Lozano in the school’s statement. “These efforts have made the University of California a leader among universities across the nation in ensuring academic opportunity for undocumented college students.”
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