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An Update on Lt. Barger's Experience with the Tuition Assistance Program
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Lieutenant Steven Barger was interviewed for the Village Vibe last year (Issue 4) because he is a longtime participant in the Village's Tuition Assistance program. Since then, he graduated from Fayetteville State University with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Fire and Emergency Service Administration. He intended to follow up his BS with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at the University of Missouri but had to make a quick pivot to another program because the tuition estimates were not consistent with the tuition he was going to be charged. Instead, Lt. Barger will be attending Columbia Southern University this spring (starting January 25). He will be pursuing a Master of Science degree in Fire Service Executive Leadership, Occupational Safety, and Health. Although he is now on a different path, this course of study will prepare Lt. Barger for more advanced leadership roles. He is pleased to see the program grow within the Department of Public Safety. He’s enjoyed the conversations with co-workers on what classes they have taken and they have often assisted each other. “I recall times when PSO LeBer would assist me in a math class I was in so I could better understand a concept. Captain Gibson and I have shared books from class that enrich our skills outside the course itself.” He added, “the program opens up many opportunities for us all to better serve the island and play a larger role in our agency.” Lt. Barger thanked the Village for the support which has made his continuing education possible and said that he is very grateful. "In an instant gratification world, many workplaces don’t provide this type of assistance to employees and I’m a firm believer it’s a retention tool.”
About the Program
Full-time employees are eligible to receive up to $3,000 per fiscal year based on the successful completion of classes (defined as a final grade of C or better). Covered costs include tuition, books, lab costs, and student fees. Requests for tuition assistance are submitted to the Human Resources Office prior to course registration and are subject to the review and approval of the Department Director and Village Manager and are subject to the availability of funds. Funds are currently available for this fiscal year and will be requested for the next fiscal year.
The Village Vibe VBHI Employee Newsletter - Issue 7
Lt. Barger was recently featured in the Winter 2022-2023 issue of South Brunswick Magazine as one of Brunswick County's "FUTURE 10" leaders.
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