Support Alelia’s Fight to Stay at Howard

My name is Alelia Sanders, and I am a student at Howard University. I’m reaching out not because of academic failure, but due to an administrative breakdown that has jeopardized my financial aid and my ability to continue my education. Under my advisor’s guidance, I took courses at Wake Technical Community College to stay on track. I submitted all required forms, but delays in processing my transfer credits have left my transcript with an inaccurate completion rate affecting my Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and freezing my aid. My advisor contacted Financial Aid, and I’ve followed up multiple times, but the Registrar’s delays remain unresolved. Even worse, I was never formally notified that my financial aid was revoked for 2024–2025. There was no email, no letter, no portal alert. In April, I received an email saying my SAP status was unsatisfactory, only to be told two days later it was a mistake. That led me to believe everything was resolved until I found out it wasn’t. When I attempted to appeal, the Financial Aid Office denied me the chance, saying the academic year had ended.

Adding to the frustration, I enlisted in the National Guard in 2023 and qualify for both State and Federal Tuition Assistance. However, Howard has yet to finalize a required Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that would allow me to access these benefits. Despite support from the Veteran Affairs Office, the National Guard, and my ROTC cadre, the university has shown little interest in moving forward. I am seeking immediate financial assistance to cover my Fall 2024 tuition and fees while I continue to appeal for 2025–2026. Every donation helps keep me enrolled and on track toward the degree I’ve worked so hard for. If you’ve ever felt the weight of systems failing you despite doing everything right please stand with me. Share, donate, and help me hold on to the future I’ve been building.

With gratitude,

A'Lelia Sanders

Howard University Student