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Media Relations
Kansas State University
9 Anderson Hall
Manhattan, KS 66506
785-532-6415
media@k-state.edu

Information provided by K-State Media Relations, K-State's news service, may be reproduced without permission. The marks and names of Kansas State University are protected trademarks and may not be used in any commercial or private endeavor without the approval of the university.

Sources: Pat Bosco, 785-532-6237, bosco@k-state.edu;
and Larry Moeder, 785-532-6420, larrym@k-state.edu
http://www.k-state.edu/media/mediaguide/bios/boscobio.html
http://www.k-state.edu/media/mediaguide/bios/moederbio.html
News release prepared by: Katie Mayes, 785-532-6415, kmayes@k-state.edu

Monday, Dec. 22, 2008

STUDENTS AND FAMILIES FACING FINANCIAL CHALLENGES AREN'T ALONE AT K-STATE

MANHATTAN -- For some students and their families, affording a college education was already a challenge before the economic downturn. That's why officials with Kansas State University's offices of student financial assistance and student life are seeking out students who may be in trouble.

Larry Moeder, assistant vice president and director of student financial assistance, said that his office conducts an annual survey of students related to the cost of a K-State education. Given the economic climate, additional questions addressing the impact of the flailing economy were added this year. Specifically, the new survey asks whether a parent has recently lost their job.

"Typically, K-State students show the highest financial need among students in the state of Kansas," Moeder said. "We anticipate that because our students have more financial need, they'll also experience the most impact. That's why it's critical for K-State to be out in front of this."

Though Moeder's survey results aren't all back yet, student concern is apparent. A recently launched question referral system for K-State students called "Ask Willie," saw several inquiries. In the first week of the new service's operation, nearly 20 percent of the inquiries were related to finances.

"At K-State, we make every effort to make sure students are connected and that we're being responsive to their needs," said Pat Bosco, K-State's vice president for student life and dean of students. "Reaching out to students and giving them additional ways to seek information will help ensure success down the line."

In response to changing financial circumstances, Moeder said his office is available to take a deeper look at a student's need by reviewing individual cases throughout the year.

"In a lot of cases, we can adjust their eligibility for federal, state or university financial aid," Moeder said. "Our office is all about helping students afford a K-State education, so we're being proactive to make sure those who might need help know where to go."

More information about student financial aid at K-State is available at http://www.k-state.edu/sfa or by calling 785-532-6420.