| Report: | 
Table of Contents
2010 Recommendations
Laws and Policies 3
Background 3
Powers and Duties 4
Joint Sunset Committee Review History 7
Audits 7
Administrative Procedures Act 7
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 7
Federal Laws 7
Memoranda of Understanding and Interagency Agreements 8
Judicial Decisions and Executive Orders 8
Performance 9
Mission 9
Accomplishments 9
Challenges 11
Opportunities for Improvement 11
Coordination of Services with other Agencies 11
Internal Performance Measures 13
Primary Customers 13
Complaints 13
The Commission 14
Staff 14
Staff Training 17
Student Assistance Programs 17
Other Programs 27
Public Information 28
Fiscal 29
Revenue 29
Fees 31Governing Statute
2010 Recommendations:
Delaware Higher Education Commission
The Joint Sunset Committee recommends continuance of the Delaware Higher Education Commission, but only upon its meeting certain conditions or making certain modifications as identified below.
A. The Joint Sunset Committee recommends the following statutory changes:
Rename the Higher Education Commission the “Higher Education Office.” The Office will continue to be an office within the Department of Education. The employees of which would continue to be compensated according to Department of Education pay scales. The Office would remain as a stand alone budget unit within the Budget Bill. The Commission itself, not the agency, will be dissolved. The roles and responsibilities of the Higher Education Commission will be transferred to the Office. All duties and responsibilities that were not adopted by the current Higher Education Commission will be statutorily transferred to the Department of Education.
Amend the statute as necessary to provide the technical change required for each of the following:
Critical Need Scholarship. Issue: This section falls under Professional Incentive Programs that are technically loan programs. This program is a reimbursement to the teacher after the coursework is completed and is never considered to be a loan. This section should be placed elsewhere in the Chapter.
Michael C. Ferguson Achievement Awards. Issue: Although this scholarship program is listed under the section regarding memorial scholarships, the program does not follow the statutory language under §3441. Awards.
Engineering and Applied Science Recruitment Fund. Issue: There are currently two organizations receiving funding for this program (FAME - Forum to Advance Minorities in Engineering, and MERIT – Minority Engineering Regional Incentive Training). Both of these receive an appropriation based in epilogue language each year in the Annual Appropriations Act in what results to simply being a pass-though grant. There is no designated “fund” as referred to in statute.
Amend the statute to provide that the Higher Education Office, subject to approval by the Secretary of Education, shall appoint a member to serve on DIMER. (16 Del. C. § 9906(b)).
Amend the statute to provide that the Higher Education Office, subject to approval by the Secretary of Education, shall appoint a member to serve on DIDER. (16 Del. C. § 9941(b)).
Amend the statute to provide that the Higher Education Office, in conjunction with the Department of Education, shall appoint one member of the public to serve on the Delaware College Investment Plan in lieu of the Chairperson of the Higher Education Commission. (14 Del. C. § 3484(b)(3)).
The Joint Sunset Committee recommends that the Higher Education Office do the following:
The Higher Education Office, in conjunction with the Department of Education, shall develop state-level strategic plans for higher education.
The Higher Education Office, in conjunction with the Department of Education, shall develop statewide policies guiding higher education institutions.
The Higher Education Office, in conjunction with the Department of Education, shall develop better business relationships (site visits to schools) with high school guidance counselors, college and university admissions staff and other community agencies that support enrollment of the low-income, first generation, and non traditional population seeking college entry or retraining to highlight the Higher Education Commission’s scholarship opportunities.
The Higher Education Office, in conjunction with the Department of Education, shall continue to broaden the extent of outreach opportunities making better use of technology for outreach purposes (Web 2.0.).
The Higher Education Office shall provide regular communication of agency mission, vision and objectives through the agency to the public.
The Higher Education Office, in conjunction with the Department of Education, shall perform a comprehensive evaluation of the scholarship programs to determine effectiveness of the programs.
Laws and Policies
Background
The Postsecondary Education Commission was created in 1975 to coordinate state efforts in higher education. In 1979, the Postsecondary Education Commission was assigned administration of a need-based grant program. Other student financial aid programs, including the Delaware Higher Education Loan program, were assigned in subsequent years.
In 1991, the Postsecondary Education Commission was renamed the Higher Education Commission per an Executive Order by former Governor Castle. In 2001, legislation was passed to integrate the Higher Education Commission into the Department of Education. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 4
Statute provides that the purpose of the Higher Education Commission is to: 14 Del. C. § 180
…serve[s] as a source of higher education information and expertise for the executive and legislative departments of the State and for Delaware citizens who can benefit from higher education. It serves as a mechanism for members of the public and professional groups to address higher education issues and ensure that resources are continuously focused to meet state priorities. The Higher Education Commission, with the Department of Education, will support student transition between K-12 education and postsecondary education environments, and support increased student achievement.
Powers and Duties
The powers and duties of the Higher Education Commission are provided for in 14 Del. C. § 180. Those powers and duties are listed below along with comments from the Higher Education Commission: Response to 2nd Questionnaire, pgs. 1-2 and Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 34-36
Ensure that state resources for higher education are targeted on state priorities serving Delawareans;
Issue: The Higher Education Commission has no authority to direct financial resources, whether student aid or other purposes, for higher education. The General Assembly could decide to start a new scholarship program without consideration of state priorities or needs.
Ensure that higher education is accessible and affordable to all Delaware students who qualify for admission by providing financial assistance and guidance services;
Issue: The Higher Education Commission staff administers financial aid programs funded through limited general fund appropriations. The Higher Education Commission annually publishes The Delaware Scholarship Compendium which provides some guidance on financial assistance; however, the Higher Education Commission cannot ensure higher education accessibility and affordability for all Delaware students.
Strengthen the role and impact of higher education in elementary and secondary education reform, achievement of student performance expectations and teacher professional development;
Issue: DOE is responsible for elementary and secondary reform and in deciding where there is a role for higher education. The size of the Higher Education Commission staff limits our capacity to provide outreach activities to increase student performance expectations.
Ensure that higher education curricula and student achievement standards are aligned with Delaware’s workforce development needs;
Issue: DOE currently has the responsibility to establish student achievement standards for K-12 students. The P-20 Council may contribute to the conversation.
Ensure that higher education and elementary and secondary education curricula and student achievement standards are aligned to facilitate student readiness to enter college;
Issue: DOE currently has the responsibility to establish student achievement standards for K-12 students. The P-20 Council may contribute to the conversation.
Enhance the capacity for quality data collection and reporting to meet federal mandates, regional and interstate contractual agreements, and national data sharing requirements;
In cooperation with the Department of Education, identify and implement methods to ensure a seamless transition for Delaware residents from elementary and secondary education to postsecondary education;
Ensure that higher education services reflect changing needs and capabilities by exploring regional and national trends, and recommending implementation as appropriate;
Promote student academic preparation for higher education and facilitate families exploring regional and national trends, and recommending implementation as appropriate;
Promote student academic preparation for higher education and facilitate families saving for college;
Expand education opportunities available through interstate agreements such as the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and the State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College, and publicize and promote their use;
Expand and promote use of quality technology opportunities in higher education, including distance learning and Internet-based options;
Monitor and assist in resolution of consumer complaints related to student financial assistance, academic credit and credit transfer; coordinate efforts as appropriate with the Department of Justice and private consumer protection agencies;
Issue: Although a policy for assisting with the resolution of consumer complaints was discussed and drafted by the Higher Education Commission a number of years ago, not all public colleges agreed to abide by the policy. The Higher Education Commission staff refer consumer complaints back to the institutions of higher education as the final authority to resolve the issue.
Promote and help focus private sector giving for student financial assistance,
Issue: The Higher Education Commission has never done this.
Provide administrative support to the Delaware College Investment Plan Board of Trustees and coordinate marketing and promotion of the Delaware College Investment Plan;
Administer specific programs relating to higher education and others as may be established or assigned by the General Assembly, the State Board of Education;
Approve out-of-state colleges to operate in Delaware;
Issue: This provision was added to the Commission’s responsibilities when the statute was enacted in 2001 with the intent to transfer these responsibilities from the Department of Education to the Higher Education Commission. However, these duties were never actually transferred to the Higher Education Commission from DOE, where these responsibilities remain.
Approve proprietary trade and technical schools; and
Issue: This provision was added to the Commission’s responsibilities when the statute was enacted in 2001 with the intent to transfer these responsibilities from the Department of Education to the Higher Education Commission. However, these duties were never actually transferred to the Higher Education Commission from DOE, where these responsibilities remain.
Approve Delaware Colleges for Veterans’ Administration programs.
Issue: This provision was added to the Commission’s responsibilities when the statute was enacted in 2001 with the intent to transfer these responsibilities from the Department of Education to the Higher Education Commission. However, these duties were never actually transferred to the Higher Education Commission from DOE, where these responsibilities remain.
As pointed out above, the Higher Education Commission only has actual responsibility for nearly half of its statutory powers and duties.
Currently, there is neither proposed legislation that would alter the Higher Education Commission’s key powers and responsibilities nor any proposed legislation that the Higher Education Commission is supporting. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 34
The following response was provided when the Higher Education Commission was asked to suggest any changes to its governing statute or organization: Response to JSC 3rd Questionnaire, pgs. 6-7
All states have an identifiable higher education agency to liaise with state colleges and universities; administer state- and federally-funded financial assistance programs; collect higher education data; and provide higher education planning assistance to state residents. [The Higher Education Commission] currently serves this unique role for Delaware by providing:
early college outreach activities (Reaching Higher for Student Success Campaign)
college preparatory materials,
state- and federally-funded student financial aid to Delaware students in both public and private colleges, in-state and out-of-state
administration of regional contract programs, such as the Academic Common Market,
higher education data collection and reporting,
a central repository of data collected from the institutions within the state, and
administration of the Delaware College Investment Plan
In addition, [the Higher Education Commission] is the State Higher Education Executive Officers (SHEEO) designated agency for Delaware. All states are represented in SHEEO by the higher education agency chief executive officer (in Delaware, by the DHEC director). Through the state’s membership in SHEEO and other national organizations, such as National Association of State Student Grant and Aid Programs (NASSGAP), DHEC provides a voice for Delaware residents on national higher education policy as well as sharing best practices.
[The Higher Education Commission] has not served as a “Commission” type agency with an advisory board since 2002—without any loss of functionality. … The current statute does not accurately reflect the agency’s actual duties and responsibilities and needs to be revised. It is also recommended that [the Higher Education Commission] remain as a division within [the Department of Education] to strengthen our mutual goal of educating Delaware students from pre-K through higher education.
Joint Sunset Committee Review History
The Higher Education Commission has never been reviewed by the Joint Sunset Committee.
Audits
The Higher Education Commission has never been audited or evaluated by the State Auditor or any other external organization. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 41
Administrative Procedures Act
Statute provides that the regulations developed by the Higher Education Commission are subject to the approval of the Secretary of Education and the State Board of Education. 14 Del C. § 184 The Higher Education Commission stated that it promulgates “limited regulations in coordination with the Department of Education.” Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 39 The Deputy Attorney General conducted a review of the current regulations and is currently not considering any amendments or changes.
There are three Deputy Attorneys General involved with the Higher Education Commission. One is designated specifically for the Higher Education Commission, one is assigned to the Delaware College Investment Plan, and one deals with Higher Education Commission/ Department of Education legal matters. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 40
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
All FOIA requests are referred to the Department of Education’s Public Information Officer for a response.
The Higher Education Commission has not held a board meeting since 2002 and as such, no meeting notices or agendas have been posted.
Per statute, 14 Del C. § 181 (14) the Higher Education Commission provides administrative support to the Delaware College Investment Plan Board. Meeting agendas for the Delaware College Investment Plan (DCIP) Board are posted on the website for the State of Delaware Public Meeting Calendar.
Federal Laws
The following federal laws are applicable to the Higher Education Commission: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 41
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) (reauthorized version of the Higher Education Act of 1965)
American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA)
Federal laws related to the administration of the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program (CFDA 84.185A) and the Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP) program (CFDA 84.069).
The Delaware College Investment Plan and Fidelity Investments (program manager) are subject to the following federal (and SRO) laws and regulations:
IRS §529 (Internal Revenue Service)
Federal Gift, GST (Generation-skipping Transfer Tax), and Estate Tax Laws
Federal Securities Laws
MSRB Rules (Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board)
FINRA Rules (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority)
Memoranda of Understanding and Interagency Agreements
The Higher Education Commission provided the following information with regard to Memoranda of Understanding, Interagency Agreements: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 41
The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Veterinary Medicine Contract Program provides that up to two new Delaware residents annually pay the in-state tuition rate at the University of Georgia and Oklahoma State University Colleges of Veterinary Medicine.
SREB Annual membership dues, GO Alliance, Ed Tech Cooperative
MOU with Delaware Economic Development Office to administer two Governor’s Adult Assistance for Education grant programs
Delaware College Investment Program Trust Agreements with Fidelity Investments
Private Scholarship MOU’s with donors.
State Loan Repayment Program contract with recipients
University of Delaware & DSU – Delaware College Investment Program sponsorship agreements
Judicial Decisions and Executive Orders
The Higher Education Commission indicated that there are no judicial decisions or Executive Orders impacting the Commission. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 41 and Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pg. 7
Performance
Mission
In its response to the JSC Initial Questionnaire, the Higher Education Commission indicated that its mission “seeks to increase awareness of, and access to, higher education for Delaware students: to respond to public demand for guidance; to effectively administer a variety of student aid and contract programs; and to meet higher education information needs for State policy and economic development.” Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 47
The Higher Education Commission’s primary objectives include: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 47
Administering state, federal and private student financial aid programs, and assisting with the development of private scholarship programs.
Administering and promoting the Delaware College Investment Plan in conjunction with Fidelity Investments.
Enhancing the capacity for quality data collection and reporting of institutional higher education data elements.
Expanding and promoting educational opportunities through interstate and institutional agreements.
Accomplishments
The Higher Education Commission listed the following as its most significant accomplishments: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 45 & 46
The automation of internal processes and services for almost all of its 23 public and 9 private financial aid programs. Applications, tracking, correspondence, and processing payments have been integrated in our scholarship database. Previously, communication between the Higher Education Commission, students, and colleges was done mainly with paper.
By rejoining the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) in 1998, the Higher Education Commission has been the primary agency responsible for coordinating activities related to higher education with SREB.
Delaware became an active participant in the Academic Common Market (ACM) program through SREB. The ACM is a tuition-savings agreement between the 16 states that are members of the SREB. Eligible Delaware students are saving an average of $11,500 in annual tuition costs this year. In total, Delaware families are saving over $1,000,000 through the ACM for the 2009-10 academic year, and 682 students have saved a total of over $6,000,000 since joining SREB.
FY07 55 new students tuition savings $562,158 ($10,221 average)
FY08 63 new students tuition savings $662,488 ($10,516 average)
FY09 83 new students tuition savings $973,215 ($11,725 average)
SREB membership also includes access to the Veterinary Medicine Contract Program, Go Alliance, and Ed Tech Cooperative.
The Higher Education Commission provides information to the public about higher education opportunities, particularly state-sponsored financial aid, through publications, online, and outreach activities.
Delaware Scholarship Compendium sent to high schools (FY10 - 17,281)
Junior Checklists (FY10 - 12,668)
Senior Checklists (FY10 - 12,094)
The Higher Education Commission provides extensive customer service (by phone and through email) to a very diverse audience covering a wide range of information.
In 1998, the Higher Education Commission initiated a committee appeals process for students applying for the Scholarship Incentive Program (ScIP) and/or the ACM providing them with an opportunity to show that their out-of-state major is not offered at an in-state public institution. Through established precedents, the number of appeals has decreased from 58 in 1998 to three in 2007-08 and 2008-09 and six in 2009-10.
The P-20 Council appears to be an effective vehicle for coordinating issues of transition from K-12 to postsecondary education. Higher Education Commission staff serve on a number of P-20 subcommittees such as the Delaware College Access Network (DE CAN), P-20 Data Cube, Transfer of Credit Matrix, and various subcommittees of DE CAN.
Beginning in 1998 the Higher Education Commission and Fidelity Investments offer a way for people to save money for college through the Delaware College Investment Plan (529 Plan). As of August 30, 2009, the Plan has since inception:
opened 24,853 accounts
$381,570,971 in gross sales, and
$388,476,425 in ending assets
Incorporated the Scholarship Loan Program into the Higher Education Commission’s scholarship database – The professional incentive programs are merit based recruitment programs with loan forgiveness provisions for qualified Delaware/State employment in critical need areas. Prior to the 2008-2009 academic years, management of these scholarship/loans included manually awarding, monitoring and tracking to the completion of service or cash repayment.
Collected scholarship/loan cash repayments from July 2008-June 2009 from 43 students who did not complete their required service repayment program. They have now completed their loan repayment obligation with the state of Delaware. Borrowers for this period paid a total of $199,512.36.
Expanded services for administering private community scholarship programs.
Expanded the Higher Education Commission’s agreement with DEDO this year to provide grants to unemployed adults in seeking higher education opportunities.
The Higher Education Commission worked closely with the Health Care Commission to coordinate financial aid for students pursuing a medical or dental degree.
The Higher Education Commission also worked with the Health Care Commission in recruiting medical personnel to work in medically underserved areas in exchange for repayment of their outstanding student loans.
Challenges
The Higher Education Commission is facing the following challenges: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 46-47
Clarification of the Higher Education Commission’s role in the Department of Education would be beneficial.
There are no state-level strategic plans for higher education with which to align and no driving force for innovation at this time.
There are no statewide policies guiding higher education institutions.
Attempting to get timely and accurate information from higher education institutions in the state such as specific data elements or program characteristics or statistics.
Opportunities for Improvement
The Higher Education Commission listed the following as opportunities for improvement: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 46
Develop better business relationships (site visits to schools) with high school guidance counselors, college and university admissions staff and other community agencies that support enrollment of the low-income, first generation, and non traditional population seeking college entry or retraining to highlight the Higher Education Commission’s scholarship opportunities.
Continue to broaden the extent of outreach opportunities. Ideally, the Higher Education Commission would like to make better use of technology for outreach purposes (Web 2.0.)
Regular communication of agency mission, vision and objectives should occur through the agency to the public. The Higher Education Commission is in need of guidance for a strategic plan.
Comprehensive evaluation of our scholarship programs to determine effectiveness of the programs.
Coordination of Services with other Agencies
The Commission coordinates its services with the following state agencies: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 47-48
Delaware Health Care Commission (DHCC) – financial assistance programs and policy development for health-related majors and services:
Delaware Institute for Medical Education and Research (DIMER) – provides an opportunity for Delaware residents to attend Jefferson Medical College or the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and receive a tuition reduction stipend. Recipients may also receive a need-based scholarship.
Delaware Institute for Dental Education and Research (DIDER) – provides an opportunity for Delaware residents to attend the Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University and receive a tuition reduction stipend. Recipients may also receive a need-based scholarship.
Delaware State Loan Repayment Program for Health Professionals (SLRP) – designed to recruit and assist in the placement of healthcare providers in underserved areas. SLRP assists health professionals with repayment of outstanding government and commercial student loans through service commitments of at least two years.
Delaware Economic Development Office – provides funding for part-time students.
The Governor’s Education Grant for Working Adults – is designed to assist working adult students who meet certain enrollment, employment, and eligibility requirements. Award is up to $2,000 per year.
The Governor’s Education Grant for Unemployed Workers – is designed to assist those individuals who have lost their jobs due to the current economic climate and have been unsuccessful obtaining employment. (New program for the 2009-10 academic year.)
Delaware State University and the University of Delaware – work with the Higher Education Commission State ACM Coordinator to identify programs to be offered in the ACM for out-of-state residents.
Delaware Institute for Veterinary Medical Education (DIVME) – work with the Higher Education Commission to identify eligible students to participate in the SREB Regional Contract Program for veterinary education.
University of Delaware – to promote programs that provide financial aid to students in the Alternative Routes To Certification (ARTC) program and the Master’s Plus Certification Program (MPCP). Serve on both the ARTC and MPCP Advisory Committees.
Delaware Division of Libraries – to find and recruit qualified candidates who plan on returning to college for an ALA-accredited master’s degree program of library and information science.
Delaware Office of Pensions – assists the Higher Education Commission with the administration of the Delaware College Investment Plan.
Department of Labor – provides information for unemployed adults who apply for financial aid.
Internal Performance Measures
The Higher Education Commission does not have a formal internal review process, although the Higher Education Commission indicated that a review of its program procedures is performed at least annually, in an effort to improve performance and efficiency. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 49
Primary Customers
The Higher Education Commission’s primary customers include: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 48-49
Residents of Delaware:
Middle and high school students – early awareness and outreach
College students – financial aid information and dissemination, comprehensive system for processing scholarships and grants
Parents – informing them about saving for college, financial aid opportunities available for their children, and informing them on the importance of encouraging their children to receive a postsecondary education
Colleges – working with them to efficiently process state-funded student financial aid
High school guidance counselors
Governor’s office and legislators – addressing constituent questions or concerns
Complaints
The Higher Education Commission stated that “based on anecdotal information and the limited number of complaints received from legislators and the Governor’s office, we believe our customers are well served.” The Higher Education Commission stated that unfortunately due to the nature of the business, funding can only be provided “to a limited number of eligible students and that leaves a number of people unhappy.” Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 49
Statute provides that the Higher Education Commission “Monitor and assist in resolution of consumer complaints related to student financial assistance, academic credit and credit transfer; coordinate efforts as appropriate with the Department of Justice and private consumer protection agencies.” 14 Del. C. § 181 (12).
The Higher Education Commission stated, “Although a policy for assisting with the resolution of consumer complaints was discussed and drafted by the Commission a number of years ago, not all public colleges agreed to abide by the policy. The Commission staff refer consumer complaints back to the institutions of higher education as the final authority to resolve the issue.” Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 35
The Commission
Statute provides that the Higher Education Commission include the following thirteen members: 14 Del. C § 182
3 Presidents of public colleges in Delaware;
1 Chairperson of 1 public college board of trustees, appointed by the Governor;
1 President of an independent college, appointed by the Governor;
The president of the board of trustees of an independent college, appointed by the Governor;
The Secretary of Education;
One representative of the Governor's Office; and
5 Governor's appointees
Statute provides that the Chair of the Higher Education Commission be appointed by the Governor. Senate confirmation of appointees is not required. The Higher Education Commission stated that public members serve a three year term, Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 51 however, statute is silent as to the length of a term, reappointment, qualifications for public members (i.e. geographical/political balance, etc) and how/when a member can be removed.
Members do not receive any compensation except for mileage to attend Commission meetings. Additionally, members do not receive any formal training. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 53 Of note is the fact that the Higher Education Commission’s Board members have not met since October 2002. Since that time, the Board Chair resigned and moved out of state. A replacement Chair was not appointed. At that time, the Secretary of Education determined that the Higher Education Commission served only as an advisory group since the Board members’ decisions required her final approval. It was also the Secretary’s contention that the Higher Education Commission had limited effectiveness as they had no governance over the public higher education institutions in Delaware. Consequently, Higher Education Commission meetings were no longer convened. The terms of all Governor-appointed members have since expired and as such, they are no longer considered to be a Board member. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 36
Staff
Statute provides that the “The Commission may employ an Executive Director and other staff as necessary to meet its mandate and provide effective service within the limitations set forth in the annual appropriations act. For purposes of administrative coordination, the Executive Director will report directly to the Secretary of Education and the Chair of the Commission. Employees of the Higher Education Commission shall be compensated in accordance with the provisions set forth in Chapter 13…” of Title 14. 14 Del. C. § 183
When the Higher Education Commission was officially integrated into DOE pursuant to statute in FY02, all Higher Education Commission staff positions were placed in the budget epilogue as line items at their comparable merit pay rate. FY05 was the first year that Higher Education Commission staff positions were compensated per the provisions in Title 14, Chapter 13. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 36
The Higher Education Commission pointed out that after the previous Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission retired in 2002, the Secretary of Education determined that the position should be reclassified as Director, as the other DOE workgroups had only Directors, not Executive Directors, at the Education Associate level.
The Higher Education Commission’s Associate Director was named as the new Director, at the Education Specialist level. The Associate Director position was never filled and has been removed from the authorized budget. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 36
The Higher Education Commission has 6 general fund positions and 1 non-appropriated special fund position. All staff are employees of the Department of Education and as such are non merit. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 53
JSC Final Report 31
Delaware Higher Education Commission May 2010
JSC Final Report 3
Delaware Higher Education Commission May 2010
Below is a list and brief explanation of the Higher Education Commission’s support staff indicating the percent of staff time that is devoted to each of the responsibilities: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 54 & 55
Director - $93,526
Provide daily managerial oversight of office activities and staff – 60%
Provide for continued college financial aid opportunities for Delaware residents – 20%
Represent student and Higher Education Commission interests on various committees – 10%
Respond to requests for constituent services – 20%
Secretary - $39,147
Process financial aid applications, related correspondence, college rosters, and payments & refunds for various programs – 35%
Provide accurate information to external inquires regarding scholarship opportunities, disbursements and general information – 35 %
Prepare correspondence, memos, reports and other written materials as necessary. Coordinate and complete large mailings – 15%
Maintain sensitive academic and fiscal records – 10%
Handle various copying, faxing and filing. Order and maintain office supplies – 5%
Provide general support in presence and absence of Administrative Secretary
Administrative Secretary - $44,245
Receive and respond to correspondence from high schools, colleges/universities, students, and the general public – 5%
Maintain and update student information via database or hard copy filing – 5%
Work with four separate databases to accomplish work assignments – 20%
Initiate purchase orders and process payments for approximately 23+ scholarships/grants/loan programs. Tracking of each – 30%
Update spreadsheets to reflect purchase orders and payment vouchers. Complete monthly reconciliations of each account and ensure each account’s expenditures are correct – 30%
Assists Director when needed – 5%
Report initiation and completion – 5%
ACM State Coordinator and Publications Coordinator - $67,625
Publications and promotion - 60%
Program administration - 40%
Field Agent/Program Coordinator - $76,516
Administer federal, state, and privately funded grant and scholarship programs – 50%
Administer professional incentive programs – 35%
Administer state loan repayment programs – 15%
Data Analyst - $70,973
Collect and report higher education data for state and external policymakers and stakeholders – 10%
Administer state scholarship programs through database processing – 50%
Manage the Michael C. Ferguson Scholarship Administration system – 20%
Manage scholarship budget with increasing precision – 8%
Chair the P-20 Data Committee – 10%
Manage project to create Delaware Transfer of Credit Matrix – 2%
Financial Investment Program Specialist - Vacant - $56,410
non-appropriated special fund position - (funded by DCIP)
Administer the Delaware College Investment Plan – 25%
Market the Delaware College Investment Plan – 50%
Serve as liaison between the State of Delaware, Fidelity Investments, and the DCIP board – 15%
Assist Director and other professional staff with scholarship administration – 10%
The Higher Education Commission also had one 60% casual/seasonal support staff person that worked 3 days a week. This position was eliminated in July 2009.
The Higher Education Commission still has one 80% Diamond Technologies computer consultant that works 4 days a week. Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pg. 8 The role of the consultant is to provide ongoing support, maintenance and programming of the Michael C. Ferguson Scholarship System. The work includes, but is not limited to software design and development using Microsoft technologies including VB.net, ASP.net, SQL Server, HTML and related technologies. The current rate is $85 per hour. Response to JSC 3rd Questionnaire, pg. 6
Staff are recruited and hired pursuant to DOE hiring procedures. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 53 DOE applications are submitted to the DOE Human Resources office where any required tests are administered, the initial review of candidates is conducted and the qualified applications are forwarded to the Higher Education Commission. After the Higher Education Commission selects applicants to interview, the DOE HR office schedules the initial interviews. The DOE HR office checks references for the candidate selected by the Higher Education Commission and the HR office offers the position if the references are acceptable. All DOE employees must have a criminal background check. Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pg. 8
Staff Training
The Higher Education Commission stated that staff are provided the following training opportunities: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 54
Formal training opportunities offered annually through SREB and SHEEO for the Data Analyst regarding data collection processes.
USDOE provides annual training at conferences for financial aid professionals.
Training opportunities available through the OMB Human Resource Office.
Student Assistance Programs
The Higher Education Commission’s responsibilities with regard to Scholarship administration includes: Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pg. 6 and 14 Del. C. Chapter 34.
Providing information to high schools, colleges, community organizations, legislators, and the public through publication, news releases, and our website.
Providing customer service to help students understand and apply for Higher Education Commission programs.
Publishing deadlines annually in The News Journal and Delaware State News.
Reviewing out-of-state programs of study to determine portability, as necessary.
Reviewing applications to ensure that eligibility requirements are met.
Coordinating volunteers from the community to review and score essays.
Notifying recipients (and sometimes alternates) and finalizing awards.
Verifying enrollment and processing payments.
For the professional incentive loans, the Higher Education Commission tracks the progress of students repayment of loan in either service repayment, cash repayment, or both.
Additionally, the Higher Education Commission is mandated to report annually to the General Assembly the number of recipients, the institutions attended by the recipients, and the total amount of expenditures made under this chapter. However, the Higher Education Commission does not submit a report annually to the General Assembly. 14 Del. C. § 3402
The Higher Education Commission also compiles statistical data about Delaware financial institutions and serves as the state’s clearinghouse for postsecondary data and research. Data is collected on enrollment, financial aid, finance, and trends to meet state and federal mandates, regional contractual agreements, and national data sharing requirements.
Below is a list of the Scholarships administered by the Higher Education Commission: Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pgs. 3-6
Scholarship Incentive Program (ScIP)
Delaware’s need-based grant program for undergraduates attending college full-time in Delaware or Pennsylvania and undergraduates and graduates attending college in another state if their major is not available at a Delaware public college.
Award ranges from $700 to $2,200 for undergraduate students (depending on student’s grade point average (GPA) and $1,000 for graduate students.
Delaware residents must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by April 15 each year to be considered for a ScIP grant.
Scholarship administration – comprehensive program administration is generated by a staff of 6
FY07 16,364 applicants 1,507 awards $2,048,800
FY08 15,352 applicants 1,502 awards $2,063,300
FY09 19,689 applicants 1,860 awards $2,591,400
Christa McAuliffe Scholarship Loan
Incentive scholarship loan program for undergraduate students pursuing an education degree.
Loan forgiveness provision at a rate of one year of teaching in a Delaware public school for one year of loan.
Annual award amount of $5,000 (4-year college) or $2,500 (2-year college).
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75.
FY07 223 applicants 39 awards $169,500
FY08 177 applicants 35 awards $171,875
FY09 69 applicants 36 awards $177,500
Critical Need Scholarship
Assists full-time employees of Delaware public and charter schools who teach on a valid emergency certificate in a critical need area as defined by DOE.
Districts reimburse teachers for all or part of tuition and the registration fee paid for up to three credits per fall and spring terms for coursework that will enable them to achieve standard certification.
Issue: This section falls under Professional Incentive Programs that are technically loan programs. This program is a reimbursement to the teacher after the coursework is completed and is never considered to be a loan. Perhaps this section should be placed elsewhere in the Chapter. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 34-39
FY07 89 awards $95,885
FY08 100 awards $162,610
FY09 117 awards $167,353
Delaware Nursing Incentive Program
Incentive scholarship loan program for undergraduate students pursuing a certified nursing degree.
Loan forgiveness provision at a rate of one of employment at a state-owned hospital or clinic for one year of loan.
Annual award amount of $5,000 (4-year college) or $2,500 (2-year college).
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75.
FY07 165 applicants 20 awards $30,500
FY08 154 applicants 16 awards $26,875
FY09 84 applicants 13 awards $21,250
Speech/Language Pathologist Incentive Loan
Incentive scholarship loan program for graduate students in a program preparing them for a speech/language pathologist license.
Loan forgiveness provision at a rate of two years of employment as a licensed speech pathologist in a Delaware public school or by a Delaware Division of Management Services contracted provider of a program serving infants and toddlers.
Award amount varies.
Renewable for one additional year with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
FY07 20 applicants 4 awards $40,000
FY08 20 applicants 4 awards $40,000
FY09 11 applicants 3 awards $39,000
Professional Librarian and Archivist Incentive Program
Incentive scholarship loan program for graduate students in a master’s degree program of library and information science accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).
Loan forgiveness provision at a rate of two years of employment as a librarian or archivist in a public library, public school library, or state agency in Delaware for one year of loan.
Award amount varies.
Renewable for one additional year.
FY07 21 applicants 4 awards $64,000
FY08 21 applicants 13 awards $150,811
FY09 12 applicants 10 awards $123,092
Optometry Scholarship Loan
Incentive scholarship loan program for graduate students in a program preparing them for licensure as an optometrist in Delaware.
Loan forgiveness provision at a rate of one year of employment as an optometrist in Delaware for one year of loan.
Annual award amount $4,000.
There are up to 4 awards per year..
Renewable for three additional years.
FY07 9 applicants 3 awards $12,000
FY08 7 applicants 4 awards $16,000
FY09 5 applicants 4 awards $16,000
Diamond State Scholarship
Merit scholarship for graduating high school seniors who enroll full-time at a nonprofit, regionally accredited college.
Annual award amount $1,250.
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
FY07 272 applicants 200 awards $244,999
FY08 258 applicants 203 awards $235,899
FY09 174 applicants 178 awards $209,997
B. Bradford Barnes Memorial Scholarship
Merit Scholarship for one graduating high school senior who will attend the University of Delaware as a full-time student.
Award pays for tuition, fees, room, board, and books.
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
FY07 59 applicants 4 awards $66,220
FY08 57 applicants 4 awards $67,346
FY09 35 applicants 4 awards $80,561
FY10 36 applicants 4 awards $79,612
Herman M. Holloway, Sr. Memorial Scholarship
Merit Scholarship for one graduating high school senior who will attend Delaware State University as a full-time student.
Award pays for tuition, fees, room, board, and books.
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
FY07 64 applicants 4 awards $23,895
FY08 66 applicants 4 awards $38,072
FY09 60 applicants 4 awards $41,694
Charles L. “Chuck” Hebner Memorial Scholarship
Merit scholarship for one graduating high school senior who will attend Delaware State University and one high school senior who will attend the University of Delaware and majoring in the humanities or social sciences.
Award pays for tuition, fees, room, board, and books.
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
FY07 82 applicants 4 awards $59,205
FY08 88 applicants 5 awards $75,979
FY09 65 applicants 5 awards $91,556
Ivyane D.F. Davis Memorial Scholarship Fund
Scholarships to assist Delaware residents who were in foster care. Program is administered by the Child Placement Review Board, not Higher Education Commission.
Michael C. Ferguson Achievement Awards
Merit scholarships awarded to students who scored the highest on the 8th and 10th grade DSTP in reading, writing, and math.
Half of the scholarships are awarded to low-income students.
Each scholarship is $1,000 and held in an account at DHEC until the student graduates from high school and attends college.
Issue: Although this scholarship program is listed under the section regarding memorial scholarships, the program does not follow the statutory language under §3441. Awards. These scholarships are awarded to 8th and 10th graders who score the highest on the DSTP in reading, writing, and math. Scholarships are $1,000 each, and are not sufficient to meet the costs of tuition, required fees, room, board and books as identified and required in statute for our memorial scholarship programs. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 34-39
FY07 473 students $569,000
FY08 470 students $560,000
FY09 not awarded yet but appropriation was reduced from 600,000 to 300,000
Regulation 245 of the Department of Education’s Administrative Code of Regulations describes the eligibility and awarding process for this program.
Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans and Others
Grant given to any qualified student whose parent is a deceased veteran of the military, a military service personnel held prisoner of war, military service personnel officially declared to be missing in action, a state police officer who was killed in the line of duty, or an employee of the Delaware Department of Transportation who routinely worked in job-related activities with the state highway system and was killed in the line of duty.
Award varies, but generally pays for tuition and fees, and is renewable.
FY07 2 awards $15,080
FY08 2 awards $8,539
FY09 2 awards $11,473
Engineering and Applied Science Recruitment Fund
Funds paid to the Forum for the Advancement of Minorities in Engineering (FAME) and Minority Engineering Regional Incentive Training (MERIT) to encourage students from middle and high schools to pursue and experience the various facets of engineering. This is currently handled as a pass-through grant.
Issue: There are currently two organizations receiving funding for this program (FAME - Forum to Advance Minorities in Engineering, and MERIT – Minority Engineering Regional Incentive Training). Both of these receive an appropriation based in epilogue language each year in the Annual Appropriations Act in what results to simply being a pass-though grant. There is no designated “fund” as referred to in statute.
Legislative Essay Scholarship
Merit scholarship awarded to high school seniors based on submitting the highest-scored essay for either their senatorial or representative district.
Award amounts varied.
Issue: This scholarship program was discontinued two years ago due to the program not being funded in the Annual Appropriations Act. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 34-39
Education Endowment Fund
A designated fund to financially support student financial aid in the form of a grant to a student with financial need.
Funds received from individuals, corporations and businesses and assist Delaware students pursuing a postsecondary education.
The Higher Education Commission is authorized to receive, hold, invest, reinvest and use funds in the form of grants or gifts to support Delaware residents in postsecondary education programs.
To date, no funds have been received for this program.
Higher Education for Senior Citizens
Provides free tuition for senior seniors at Delaware Technical & Community College, Delaware State University, and the University of Delaware;
Administered by the institutions, not the Higher Education Commission.
Delaware National Guard Educational Benefits
Assists active members of the Delaware National Guard with tuition costs.
Administered by the Delaware National Guard, not the Higher Education Commission.
Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship
FY07 269 applicants 73 awards $103,500
FY08 246 applicants 71 awards $102,000
FY09 176 applicants 72 awards $105,000
Federally funded merit scholarship program for graduating high school seniors who enroll full-time at a nonprofit, regionally accredited college
Annual award amount $1,500. Approximately 17 new awards each year.
Renewable for 3 additional years with satisfactory academic progress.
Washington Center for Internships
FY08 3 awards $15,000
FY09 8 awards $40,000
The Washington Center (TWC) for Internships and Academic Seminars provides experiential education opportunities to students attending Delaware State University. TWC uses the resources of the nation’s capital to provide high-quality learning experiences to enhance student’s academic, civic, and professional development, and in this way, seeks to promote future leadership for the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Agreement with TWC to fund up to 8 students per year from Delaware State University.
Placements include positions in government offices, communication organizations, law firms, trade and professional associations, human rights groups, and a variety of companies and other organizations.
Students receive credit at DSU for their internship experience.
Scholarship amount is $5,000 per student to assist with program costs.
Private Scholarship Programs
Agenda for Delaware Women
FY07 63 applications 2 awards $5,000
FY08 70 applications 2 awards $5,000
FY09 268 applications 2 awards $5,000
Scholarship program for female legal residents of Delaware, U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens, and who enroll in a public or private nonprofit college in Delaware as an undergraduate student.
Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Awards are based 50% on financial need and 50% on community/school activities, vision, participation and leadership.
Award amount $2,500. Previously 2 awards per year, for the 2009-10 academic year there were 25 awards to shutting down the organization.
Scholarship program cancelled for future years by donor.
Delaware Engineering Society
FY07 15 applications 3 awards $6,000
FY08 10 applications 2 awards $3,000
FY09 15 applications 2 awards $4,000
Scholarship program for high school seniors who will enroll in an ABET-accredited college engineering program in-state or out of state.
Other requirements may apply and are determined by the donor.
There are 2 scholarships. The non-renewable scholarship (Joe J. Welker, Jr. Memorial Scholarship) award is $1000 per year minimum and the renewable scholarship (University of Delaware) award is $2000 per year.
Delaware Open Cross Country
FY07 4 applications 2 awards $2,000
FY08 8 applications 2 awards $2,000
FY09 15 applications 2 awards $3,000
Scholarship program for high school seniors nominated by their cross country coach.
Nominees must be Delaware residents who have participated in high school cross country during the junior and senior years, have an unweighted, cumulative GPA of 2.5 in high school core curriculum, and plan to enroll full- time in a 2 or 4 year program of study at a regionally accredited college.
Award amount $1,500. Awards based on 50% financial need and 50% academic achievement and leadership/community activities.
Two awards each year, one female and one male recipient.
Delaware River & Bay Authority
FY07 6 applications 3 awards $11,000
FY08 7 applications 3 awards $11,000
FY09 11 applications 3 awards $11,000
Scholarship program for dependent children of permanent employees of Delaware River and Bay Authority.
Applicants must be high school seniors planning to attend college full-time in a degree program at an accredited college.
Applications are judged on basis of academics, leadership, and/or financial need
There are 3 renewable scholarships awarded each year:
Academic Excellence, $5,000
Community Service-Leadership, $3,000
Merit Assistance, $3,000
DHEC only manages the selection process for this scholarship program but does not administer the program.
Pat Healy (Delaware Solid Waste Authority “Pat Healy” Scholarship)
FY07 4 applications 4 awards $8,000
FY08 6 applications 2 awards $4,000
FY09 47 applications 2 awards $4,000
Scholarship program for high school seniors and full-time college students in their freshmen or sophomore year majoring in either environmental engineering or environmental sciences at a Delaware college.
Award based on financial need, academic performance, community or school involvement, and leadership ability.
One renewable award each year. Award amount $2000.
First State Manufactured Housing
FY07 17 applications 2 awards $3,000
FY08 7 applications 2 awards $3,000
FY09 42 applications 2 awards $3,000
Scholarship program for Delaware residents who are high school seniors or former graduates who are seeking to further their education.
Scholarship can be used for attendance in any accredited 2 or 4 year program, any accredited training, licensing, or certification program on a part-time or full-time basis.
Applicants must have been a resident of a manufactured home for at least one year prior to the application deadline, be evaluated on scholastic record, financial need, essay, and personal/professional recommendation.
2 non-renewable awards each year. Award amount $2,000.
Kirkwood Soccer
FY07 3 applications 3 awards $1,500
FY08 4 applications 4 awards $2,000
FY09 1 application 1 award $500
Scholarship program for high school seniors who were members of a KSC team in both junior and senior high school years.
Recipients selected on the basis of their demonstrated character, scholastic achievement, school and community activities, work experience and KSC involvement.
Up to 4 non-renewable awards each year. Award amount $500.
Port of Wilmington
FY07 4 applications 1 award $2,500
FY08 6 applications 1 award $2,500
FY09 5 applications 2 awards $5,000
Scholarship program for high school seniors and returning/continuing college students whose parent, grandparent, or legal guardian is employed by any company located in the port of Wilmington that has contributed a minimum of $500 towards the Port of Wilmington Maritime Society Scholarship Fund.
Scholarship is intended for applicants who intend to enroll in a two or four year program of study.
Awards based on financial need, academic performance, school or community involvement, and leadership ability
Up to 2 non-renewable awards each year. Award amount $2500.
Joseph B. Shaefferman
FY07 0 applications
FY08 7 applications
FY09 0 applications
Scholarship program offered to members of the General Teamsters Local Union 326, or member’s dependent child who is a high school senior.
Applicants must demonstrate scholastic ability, good character, and qualities of leadership and be in the top 15% of high school graduating class. Must be in a degree seeking program at a regionally accredited college.
Awards vary
The Higher Education Commission accepts and ranks the applications for the donor’s selection process but do not process payments.
Delaware College Investment Plan (DCIP)
State-sponsored 529 college savings plan.
The Higher Education Commission is responsible for working closely with Fidelity Investments and the DCIP Board to oversee the status of Plan investments, as well as monitor Fidelity’s management of those funds for the benefit of DCIP investors.
The Higher Education Commission is responsible marketing initiatives as well as monitoring the investment and business results
The DCIP Board of Trustees consists of five individuals either appointed by the Governor, or a trustee based on the title of their job. The Board may adopt rules and regulations for the general administration of the Plan. Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pg. 7
Statute provides that the Board Chairperson be appointed by the Governor and that the Secretary of Finance or the Secretary's designee serve on the Board.
Issue: There is no Chairperson of the Higher Education Commission. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 34-39
Southern Regional Education Board (SREB)
Delaware’s SREB membership allows the Higher Education Commission to administer the Academic Common Market and the Veterinary Medicine Contract Program.
Membership allows the Higher Education Commission to actively participate in the Go Alliance initiative that works with member states sharing best practices for a going-to-college campaign.
Membership allows the Higher Education Commission to participate in the Education Technology Cooperative that addresses issues of working with technology in education.
The Academic Common Market (ACM) is a tuition-savings agreement between the 16 states that are members of the SREB.Delaware’s SREB membership allows eligible students to pay the in-state tuition rate of the participating public college, thus saving an annual average of $11,000+ in tuition costs. To date, Delaware families have saved over $6,000,000 since the state joined SREB in 1998.
In Delaware, students may apply for the ACM if they meet the following eligibility criteria:
They are a Delaware resident and U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen,
Their baccalaureate or graduate-level program of study that is not offered at the University of Delaware or Delaware State University, and
They have been accepted to or are already enrolled in an eligible program of study that has been selected for the ACM by a participating public college. Response to JSC 3rd Questionnaire, pg. 5
Delaware Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED) Scholarship Program
Provides tuition for students who meet eligibility requirements and enroll full-time in either an associate degree program at Delaware Technical & Community College or the University of Delaware’s Associate in Arts program.
Administered by the institutions, not the Higher Education Commission.
Other Programs
The Higher Education also is statutorily involved with the following programs: Response to JSC 2nd Questionnaire, pg. 8
Delaware Institute for Veterinary Medical Education (DIVME). The Higher Education Commission works with the Southern Regional Education Board and DIVME to provide financial assistance through the Regional Contract Program, which allows for up to two new veterinary medicine students at the University of Georgia and the Oklahoma State University each year. DHEC is responsible for certifying residency of the students, tracking students and projecting enrollment for the DIVME annual budget request.
Delaware Institute for Medical Education and Research (DIMER), and Delaware Institute for Dental Education and Research (DIDER)
The Higher Education Commission works closely with the DIMER and DIDER Boards, the Delaware Health Care Commission, Jefferson University, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Temple University to identify eligible students to receive financial assistance from the two programs to attend either medical or dental school. The students receive a stipend and some receive additional need-based financial aid.
Scholarship administration
DIDER
FY07 12 awards $75,000
FY08 15 awards $150,000
FY09 19 awards $225,000
DIMER
FY07 100 awards $480,000
FY08 91 awards $480,000
FY09 97 awards $480,000
DIMER Issue: Statute only lists 16 appointing authorities. The Higher Education Commission is also responsible for appointing a Board member. 16 Del. C. § 9906
DIDER Issue: Statute only lists 9 appointing authorities. The Higher Education Commission is also responsible for appointing a Board member. 16 Del. C. § 9941
In addition, the Higher Education Commission, DIMER, and DIDER, work very closely to administer the State Loan Repayment Program to certain health professionals who provide health services in a designated shortage area as approved by the Delaware Health care Commission. The Higher Education Commission is authorized to make awards for repayment of outstanding government and commercial loans incurred during undergraduate or graduate education. The Higher Education Commission tracks the status of the employee and process payments to their lender(s) according to their contract with the Higher Education Commission and the Delaware Health Care Commission.
Delaware Teacher Corps Scholarship -
Incentive scholarship loan program for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing an education degree in a critical shortage area.
Loan forgiveness provision at a rate of one year of teaching in a Delaware public school for one year of loan.
Annual award amount not to exceed the cost of tuition.
Renewable for three additional years with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75.
Delaware Teacher Corps Incentive Program
FY07 178 applicants 34 awards $141,512
FY08 137 applicants 25 awards $166,754
FY09 62 applicants 25 awards $156,960
State Loan Repayment Program
FY07 48 payments $188,288
FY08 56 payments $314,709
FY09 50 payments $308,178
Public Information
The Higher Education Commission provides the following educational/informative resources to the public: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pgs. 49-50
The Higher Education Commission distributes over 17,000 Delaware Scholarship Compendium booklets each fall to high schools throughout the state. It is also sent to college financial aid offices, legislators, libraries, and educational organizations and is available online and upon request. The Compendium provides information about planning and paying for college, lists approximately 180 private scholarships, and describes state-sponsored financial aid programs.
The Higher Education Commission distributes over 12,000 Junior and Senior Checklists to high schools each fall to help students plan for college. Checklists are also available at outreach events.
The Financial Aid for Delaware Residents brochure describes state-sponsored financial aid and is distributed to high schools, college financial aid offices, legislators, libraries, and educational organizations. It serves as the Higher Education Commission’s information take-away piece at outreach events.
The Higher Education Commission provides information about merit scholarships, incentive programs, private scholarships administered by the Commission, and the Academic Common Market through specific mailings to guidance counselors and college financial aid administrators.
By statute, the Higher Education Commission places a newspaper ad announcing merit scholarship and incentive program deadlines in a Sunday edition of the News Journal and Delaware State News each January.
The Higher Education Commission places ads in the News Journal, Delaware Today magazine, and local community publications to promote the Delaware College Investment Plan.
Working with the DOE Public Information Officer, the Higher Education Commission sends news releases to inform the public financial aid, i.e., savings through the ACM program, merit scholarship winners, Ferguson Award winners, and scheduled financial aid nights.
The Higher Education Commission’s website provides information about all of the state-sponsored aid programs we administer and directs students and parents to other sources of aid and resources for planning for college. The site includes a “Financial Aid for Delaware High School Seniors” PowerPoint presentation for families that are unable to attend a scheduled financial aid night. Students can apply online and check the status of their programs using their Student Account Access.
The Higher Education Commission works with other organizations to provide financial aid information through their publications, i.e., American Education Services (“Delaware Guide to Student Aid”) and the Department of Labor (“Delaware Career Compass”).
Delaware College Investment Plan brochures, fact kits, and application packets are available for distribution upon request, and are available at outreach events.
Financial aid presentations at high schools, community events, legislators’ meetings upon request.
The Higher Education Commission is represented by staff members at various college fairs and community events throughout the state.
The following National Organizations or other Government Entities serve as an information clearinghouse or regularly interact with the Higher Education Commission: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 50-51
State Higher Education Executive Officers (SHEEO)
Southern Regional Education Board (SREB)
National Association of State Student Grant and Aid Programs (NASSGAP)
U S Department of Education Institute of Education Sciences
U S Department of Education Federal Student Aid
College Savings Plan Network (CSPN)
American Education Services (AES/PHEAA)
Fiscal
Revenue
The Higher Education Commission generates revenue from previous loan recipients who did not pay back their loan through service and such must pay back the loan in cash. Through an agreement with the Division of Revenue, funds are paid from the student recipients to the Division of Revenue, and deposited in the state’s General Fund. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 55
Revenue by Fiscal Year
 | Source(s) of Funds | Amount |
| FY 10 (budgeted) | SF | $166,530 (estimate) |
| FY 09 (actual) | SF | $223,851 |
| FY 08 (actual) | SF | $405,879 |
The Higher Education Commission receives the following with regard to federal fund/grants:
Total amount of federal funds received:
Robert C. Byrd (RCB)
FY08 funds – $105,000
FY09 funds – $108,000
FY10 funds – $109,500
Special Leveraging Educational Assist Partnership Program (SLEAP)
FY08 funds – $105,779
FY09 funds – $103,182
FY10 funds – $100,878
Leveraging Educational Assist Partnership Program (LEAP)
FY08 funds – $80,215
FY09 funds – $80,215
FY10 funds – $83,413
Type of federal fund – LEAP (FY10)
- State/Federal Match Ratio – 1:1
- State Share of Dollars – $372,000
- Federal Share of Dollars – $83,413
Type of federal fund – SLEAP (FY10)
- State/Federal Match Ratio – 2:1
- State Share of Dollars – $201,756
- Federal Share of Dollars – $100,878
Type of federal fund – RCB (FY10)
- State/Federal Match Ratio – N/A
- State Share of Dollars – $0
- Federal Share of Dollars – $109,500
The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of the FY’10 budgeted expenses by line item:
Line Item | Source(s) | Amount of Expenditures |
| Personnel Costs | General Fund | $542,700 |
| Travel | General Fund | 0 |
| Contractual | General Fund | $58,185.44 |
| Fleet Services | General Fund | $2,200.00 |
| Graphics & Printing | General Fund | $22,214.56 |
| Postage | General Fund | $12,000.00 |
| Supplies | General Fund | $5,000.00 |
| Telephone Services | General Fund | $5,000.00 |
| Ferguson Scholarship | General Fund | $300,000 |
| SEED Scholarship | General Fund | $3,074,000 |
| Scholarships and Grants | General Fund | $3,080,000 |
| Robert C. Byrd Scholarship | Federal Funds | $109,500 |
| LEAP | Federal Funds | $83,400 |
| SLEAP | Federal Funds | $100,900 |
Fees
The Higher Education Commission collects administrative fees for the private scholarship programs that the Higher Education Commission administers. The collected funds are deposited into the Higher Education Commission’s scholarship services funding line.
Below are the fees collected by the Higher Education Commission: Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 56
FY08 – $3,025
FY09 – $3,075
FY10 (estimate) – $2,825*
* The Agenda for Delaware Women Scholarship (private) is not being offered anymore and the difference of $250 was the administrative fee the Higher Education Commission collected by administering that scholarship.
The Higher Education Commission has not conducted any formal financial analysis to determine if the current fees are sufficient to cover the related administrative costs. Response to JSC Initial Questionnaire, pg. 56
JSC Final Report
Delaware Higher Education Commission May 2010
JSC Final Report
Delaware Higher Education Commission May 2010
Governing Statute
?  TITLE 14
Education
Free Public Schools
CHAPTER 1. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Subchapter V. Delaware Higher Education Commission
§ 180. Purpose.
The Delaware Higher Education Commission serves as a source of higher education information and expertise for the executive and legislative departments of the State and for Delaware citizens who can benefit from higher education. It serves as a mechanism for members of the public and professional groups to address higher education issues and ensure that resources are continuously focused to meet state priorities. The Higher Education Commission, with the Department of Education, will support student transition between K-12 education and postsecondary education environments, and support increased student achievement.
§ 181. Responsibilities.
The Commission shall:
(1) Ensure that state resources for higher education are targeted on state priorities serving Delawareans;
(2) Ensure that higher education is accessible and affordable to all Delaware students who qualify for admission by providing financial assistance and guidance services;
(3) Strengthen the role and impact of higher education in elementary and secondary education reform, achievement of student performance expectations and teacher professional development;
(4) Ensure that higher education curricula and student achievement standards are aligned with Delaware's workforce development needs;
(5) Ensure that higher education and elementary and secondary education curricula and student achievement standards are aligned to facilitate student readiness to enter college;
(6) Enhance the capacity for quality data collection and reporting to meet federal mandates, regional and interstate contractual agreements, and national data sharing requirements;
(7) In cooperation with the Department of Education, identify and implement methods to ensure a seamless transition for Delaware residents from elementary and secondary education to postsecondary education;
(8) Ensure that higher education services reflect changing needs and capabilities by exploring regional and national trends, and recommending implementation as appropriate;
(9) Promote student academic preparation for higher education and facilitate families saving for college;
(10) Expand education opportunities available through interstate agreements such as the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and the State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College, and publicize and promote their use;
(11) Expand and promote use of quality technology opportunities in higher education, including distance learning and Internet-based options;
(12) Monitor and assist in resolution of consumer complaints related to student financial assistance, academic credit and credit transfer; coordinate efforts as appropriate with the Department of Justice and private consumer protection agencies;
(13) Promote and help focus private sector giving for student financial assistance;
(14) Provide administrative support to the Delaware College Investment Plan Board of Trustees and coordinate marketing and promotion of the Delaware College Investment Plan;
(15) Administer specific programs relating to higher education and others as may be established or assigned by the General Assembly, the State Board of Education and the Department of Education;
(16) Approve out-of-state colleges to operate in Delaware;
(17) Approve proprietary trade and technical schools; and
(18) Approve Delaware colleges for Veteran's Administration programs.
§ 182. Membership.
The membership of the Higher Education Commission shall consist of the following: 3 presidents of public colleges in Delaware; 1 chairperson of 1 public college board of trustees, appointed by the Governor; 1 president of an independent college, appointed by the Governor; 1 president of the board of trustees of an independent college, appointed by the Governor; 1 Secretary of Education; 1 representative of the Governor's Office; and 5 Governor's appointees, for a total membership of 13 persons. The Governor shall appoint the Chair of the Commission.
§ 183. Staff.
The Commission may employ an Executive Director and other staff as necessary to meet its mandate and provide effective service within the limitations set forth in the annual appropriations act. For purposes of administrative coordination, the Executive Director will report directly to the Secretary of Education and the Chair of the Commission. Employees of the Higher Education Commission shall be compensated in accordance with the provisions set forth in Chapter 13 of this title.
§ 184. Regulations.
Regulations developed by the Commission are subject to approval of the Secretary of Education and the State Board of Education.
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