The current economic crisis is forcing many states to cut back on their loan forgiveness programs, according to The New York Times. Loan forgiveness agencies, which aid students working in high-value, low-paying jobs to pay back their college loans, have seen drops in their federal funding and are facing difficulties in their efforts to raise money from other sources, The Times reported. Congress' decision to reduce its expenses by cutting subsidies to these agencies is responsible for the cuts in funding, many of these organizations told The Times. The resulting reduction in loan forgiveness programs could dissuade students from pursuing jobs in fields like education and nursing, according to the Times.
The first commencement to take place in the virtual world of Second Life will occur June 10 when Bryant & Stratton's online degree program hosts a virtual ceremony for 40 students, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education. Like any physical ceremony, the virtual graduation will feature speakers and the announcement of degrees and honor awards. According to the Chronicle, Second Life has been used by several universities for functions such as debates and college tours. Scott Traylor, the director of admissions at Bryant & Stratton, told the Chronicle that students requested this Internet option for graduation due to their busy work schedules and the hassle that comes along with commuting. Those enrolled in the online degree program were also invited to attend the real ceremony, the Chronicle reported.
The New Hampshire Senate voted down a proposal Wednesday to allow New Hampshire residents to weigh in on the issue of same-sex marriage in the state, according to the New Hampshire Union Leader. If passed, this initiative would have authorized a non-binding, statewide referendum for voters to express their views on gay marriage. New Hampshire Democrats voted against the proposal, arguing that referenda are not permitted under the state's Constitution. Republicans, however, contend that the referendum would have been constitutional because it was to be non-binding, and that voters should have a chance to express their views on the divisive issue of same-sex marriage. There are currently three different bills regarding same-sex marriage in the New Hampshire legislature, according to the Union Leader.
