FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University protects students from state financial aid reductions

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University announced today that it will fully protect students from the State of Washington’s planned reduction to the Washington College Grant (WCG), ensuring no decrease in student financial aid for the 2026–2027 academic year.

The Heritage University Board of Directors has approved the use of university reserve funds to completely replace the state’s anticipated cut to the WCG. As a result, students’ total financial aid packages will remain whole—assuming their Student Aid Index stays the same. When 2026–2027 financial aid award letters are issued, students will see an increase in university-provided funding (HU Excellence), which will directly offset the state reduction.

“We want all our students, present and future, to know that they won’t be impacted by the reduction of the Washington College Grant in the coming year,” said Heritage University President Dr. Chris Gilmer. “We are committed to ensuring that no student loses support because of a state budget decision. Keeping education accessible is at the core of who we are.”

Dr. Gilmer says Heritage University administrators are actively engaging with Washington Governor Bob Ferguson’s office and state lawmakers to advocate for the full restoration of the WCG. The university is hopeful the Legislature will reverse the planned cut during the upcoming legislative session. Administrators will continue to keep students informed as developments occur. “The Yakama Nation Tribal Council is fully supporting our advocacy of the WCG, and I am grateful for the council’s solidarity on this matter,” said Dr. Gilmer.

“Heritage exists to open doors, not close them,” said Vice President of External Affairs David Wise. “We will always advocate for our students and take every step possible to ensure nothing stands in the way of their education.”

Students with questions about their financial aid are encouraged to contact the Heritage University Financial Aid Office, where staff are ready and available to assist. For more information, please contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

# # #