A new program makes it possible for HPU students renting off-campus housing to defer their rent payments until their financial aid funds are available, according to Patrick Mayock, director of Off-Campus Housing for HPU. Mayock explained that HPU and Hawaiian Island Student Suites (HISS) recently collaborated to develop a student housing initiative called the HISS Financial Aid Deferment Program.

“ Thousands of students need and seek off-campus housing every year,” said Mayock. “With only 211 residence hall spaces at the Hawai‘i Loa campus, Hawaiian Island Student Suites has been a valuable housing referral provider to HPU.

“ Through this program,” Mayock continued, “HISS financial aid students have the opportunity to automatically pay their HISS rental fees from their excess financial aid funds.”
Mayock spearheaded development of the program, with help from Tim Lewis, managing director of HISS.

“The HISS Financial Aid Deferment Program is designed,” Mayock added, “to help HPU financial aid students ensure their HISS rental payments are made on time and hassle free.

“ We had to work hard to get the HISS Financial Aid Deferment Program established,” Mayock said, “and it has benefited HPU students to date.” He added that other members of the HPU and HISS communities also worked hard to advance the deferment program, including: Marshall Northcott, director of Management Information Systems; Adam Hatch, director of Financial Aid; Norine Yuen, assistant controller; and Beth Muaina, director of Residence Life.

Preparations for the program began in June 2007, and Mayock and Miriam Leehane, administrative assistant for HPU Off-Campus Housing, presented the first financial aid deferment checks to HISS in October.

Mayock suggested that HISS residents who are eligible to receive financial aid should call HISS for more information on this program: (808)955-2470, or visit the HISS Web site: www.campushousing.com/hawaii.