YORK, PA — In a landmark move, Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor announced an unprecedented tuition discount program for Department of the Auditor General employees and their dependents at York College. The initiative marks a new chapter in making higher education more accessible and affordable.
Joined by York College President Dr. Thomas Burns, State Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York), and State Representative Carol Hill-Evans (D-York), DeFoor unveiled the details on Tuesday. Employees will receive a 15% discount on certain master’s level programs. Dependents are eligible for scholarships of at least $10,000 annually, alongside one-time grants totaling $1,500.
A First-of-Its-Kind Partnership
“I am excited to announce a first-of-its kind, common-sense partnership with York College,” said DeFoor. “Together, we are creating life-changing opportunities for our employees and their families by making higher education more affordable.”
Dr. Burns echoed this sentiment, highlighting the dual benefits of the partnership. “By offering tuition discounts to employees and their dependents and supporting the Auditor General’s Intern to Hire program, we are not only investing in the future of our students but also fostering a strong pipeline of skilled professionals ready to serve our community and Commonwealth.”
Recognition of Cade Ham
Auditor General DeFoor also recognized Cade Ham, a Cochranville-native, as the department’s first “Intern to Hire” from York College. Ham, who majored in mathematics, now works as an Auditor 1 in the Bureau of County Audits. His hiring signifies the expanded scope of the internship program to include majors beyond accounting and IT.
Broader Impact and Implications
This initiative is crucial against the backdrop of rising higher education costs. By reducing financial barriers, the program allows more individuals to pursue advanced degrees, thereby equipping the workforce with highly skilled professionals. For the Department of the Auditor General, this means attracting top talent and enhancing its operational capabilities.
Additionally, such programs emphasize the importance of investing in employee development. They create pathways for career advancement and foster loyalty within the organization. This model could inspire other state agencies to adopt similar frameworks, contributing to a more educated and skilled public sector workforce.
Expanding Opportunities
The department also offers tuition discounts through partnerships with PennWest University and Rutgers University. PennWest provides a 20% discount on various programs, while Rutgers offers a 25% discount on specialized online courses through NASACT.
Intern to Hire Program Expansion
The Intern to Hire program, which provides paid internships leading to potential full-time employment, has broadened its scope. It now includes majors such as accounting, business, data analytics, finance, economics, and mathematics. Internships are available year-round and can be remote or hybrid.
In summary, Auditor General DeFoor’s announcement of the tuition discount program with York College represents a transformative step in making higher education more accessible. By recognizing the achievements of individuals like Cade Ham and expanding opportunities for all, this initiative promises significant benefits for the community and the public sector at large.
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