Hampton University, a historically black university, will offer University of the Bahamas students free tuition, room and board for the fall 2019 semester, university officials announced Thursday.
"I think this agreement is something that can be helpful to a great number of students and families, and is part of something I've tried to do my entire career — helping people to achieve and meet their goals," Hampton University President Dr. William R. Harvey said in a statement.
Hampton University to Offer Free Enrollment, Room & Board to University of the Bahamas Students Displaced by Hurricane Dorian: https://t.co/PMpJXH5RbX pic.twitter.com/um8BQcXRHA
— Hampton University (@_HamptonU) September 5, 2019
When the semester is over, the students will have the option to stay at Hampton University at regular rates for tuition and fees.
Dr. Rodney Smith, the president of the University of the Bahamas, was previously the administrative vice president and chief planning officer at Hampton University, CBS News reported.
A cleanup effort is currently underway in the Bahamas after Hurricane Dorian wreaked havoc on the country earlier in the week. As of Thursday, the storm had killed at least 30 people in the Bahamas.
"We are in the midst of a historic tragedy," Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Minnis said Tuesday. "The devastation is unprecedented and extensive."