MEDIA CONTACT:
Kenyon “KJ” Askew, Jr.
Director, Marketing & Strategic Engagement
klaskew736@nashcc.edu
252-451-8235

Nash Community College to End Federal Student Loans in Fall 2026

ROCKY MOUNT, North Carolina (February 18, 2026) – Nash Community College will no longer participate in the Federal Direct Student Loan Program beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, reinforcing the college’s commitment to affordability and responsible financial planning for students.

What This Means for Students

Beginning Fall 2026, NCC will no longer offer new federal student loans. However:

• Students may continue to receive Federal Pell Grants
• The NextNC Scholarship remains available for eligible students
• NCC Foundation scholarships will continue to support students
• Federal Work-Study opportunities will remain available
• State and institutional grant programs will not be affected

Students who previously borrowed federal loans will not experience any changes to their repayment terms. The college will provide ongoing guidance and financial counseling throughout the transition.

“Our mission is to provide accessible, affordable education that leads to meaningful careers,” said Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, president of NCC. “After careful review, we believe this decision aligns with our responsibility to support students in completing their education without taking on unnecessary debt.”

Aligning With Regional Trends

College leaders noted that NCC’s decision aligns with actions taken by other institutions across the region that are reevaluating student loan participation in an effort to reduce student debt and emphasize grant-based funding.

“This is not an isolated decision,” Dr. Hunnicutt added. “Institutions across our region are taking similar steps to prioritize affordability and long-term financial well-being for students. Our focus remains on access, opportunity and responsible stewardship.”

Focus on Grants and Work-Based Aid

NCC leaders emphasize that many students already attend the college using grant-based funding that does not require repayment.

“We have a large number of our students are able to complete their education with little to no out-of-pocket cost due to grant assistance,” said Dr. Wendy Cook, vice president of student services at NCC. “This shift allows us to further strengthen financial counseling and ensure students fully understand the resources available to them.”

Federal Work-Study will continue to provide eligible students with part-time employment opportunities to help offset educational costs without accumulating loan debt.

“We want students and families to feel informed and supported,” said Tammy Lester, director of financial aid at NCC. “Our team will continue guiding students through Pell Grants, scholarships, state aid and work-study options so they can make confident financial decisions.”

College officials emphasized that the decision reflects NCC’s longstanding commitment to affordability, transparency and student success.

Students and families with questions are encouraged to contact the NCC Financial Aid Office at nccfinancialaid@nashcc.edu or visit www.nashcc.edu.

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About Nash Community College 
Nash Community College’s mission is to provide an affordable educational environment which prepares students for university transfer and rewarding careers. Through quality instruction and services, technology, work force development, and community partnerships, Nash Community College provides lifelong learning opportunities to individuals, communities, and organizations. Nash Community College is a public community college in Nash County, North Carolina. It is part of the North Carolina Community College System.