Robeson Community College Hosts Finish FAFSA Frenzy Finale
LUMBERTON, NC – Robeson Community College in collaboration with the Public Schools of Robeson County, Communities in Schools, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke— and with support from the John M. Belk Endowment—recently hosted six “Finish FAFSA Frenzy” events at high schools throughout Robeson County between March and April 2025. These events were aimed at providing assistance to students completing their financial aid applications, while also connecting them with representatives from RCC’s student services and academic departments. Faculty and staff used the opportunity to showcase their programs and help students explore possible career paths.
Building on the success of the high school events, Robeson Community College hosted the Finish FAFSA Frenzy Finale on Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the RCC campus. The finale welcomed high school seniors and their families from across the county. “This finale was not only a fun celebration, with free food, games, and prizes for our high school seniors, but also provided a great opportunity for them to explore the various programs that RCC offers,” said Dr. Melissa Oxendine, Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Support Services. The event left students excited about their future and more informed about the academic opportunities available to them.
Attendees received one-on-one guidance with the FAFSA process, including financial aid advice, and assistance with creating FSA IDs. “Finish FAFSA Frenzy was designed to assist families with an important part of the college-planning process,” explained Ms. Zilma Lopes RCC Financial Aid Director. “Students should file a FAFSA as early as possible to find out about financial aid available to help them pay for higher education.” As a result of the initiative, the event drew a large turnout from students and showed just how valuable these events were for families navigating the financial aid process and those eager to take the next step toward college.
Dr. Johnny Smith, Vice President of Instruction and Student Support Services emphasized the importance of FAFSA completion, stating, “Completing the FAFSA is often the first crucial step in making college financially accessible for our students. By providing this personalized assistance, we’re removing barriers and opening doors to educational opportunities that can transform lives in our community.” Since FAFSA completion rates directly correlate with college enrollment, this initiative plays a key role in expanding access to higher education and making it more affordable for local students.
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For media inquiries, please contact Courtney Jacobs, Director of Governance and Marketing, at 910-272-3231 or cjacobs@robeson.edu.
