Ball State University Is Opening Its Doors To College Students Displaced By Hurricane Katrina

Because many colleges and universities in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama have cancelled or postponed the start of the school year due to recovery efforts, Ball State is waiving tuition for displaced undergraduate and graduate students for this semester.

"In wake of the horrific situation the residents of many of the Gulf States are facing, Ball State is offering college students the opportunity to continue their education until these universities reopen," said Ball State President Jo Ann M. Gora. "We pledge to work diligently to assist students to accommodate their individual needs and to welcome them to our campus community."

Tom Taylor, vice president for enrollment, marketing and communications, said housing arrangements for any incoming students will be made on a case-by-case basis. He is encouraging interested students to contact the university as quickly as possible to ensure academic success. Ball State began classes Aug. 22.

To register for classes, undergraduate students should contact the Office of Admissions toll free at (800) 482-4278. Graduate students may call toll free at (800) 382-8540 or (866) 285-4723.

"Academic departments will work with students to help them enroll in appropriate courses, and on-campus student housing may also be available," Taylor said. "However, time is of the essence, and we hope to have interested students enrolled as soon as possible."

The Office of Leadership and Service Learning (LSL) is serving as the official Red Cross donation site for the university. The LSL staff and students from Student Voluntary Services also will coordinate events over the next several weeks to raise funds for hurricane relief. Individuals, groups and campus organizations planning a relief program should contact LSL at (765) 285-3476.