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Alabama Rep. Prince Chestnut, D-Selma helped Selma University obtain a grant to increase its distance learning.

Chestnut presented a $12,500 check to Selma University President Dr. Stanford Angion on Wednesday morning.

The application for the funds was submitted to the State Executive Commission on Community Services by Chestnut, House District of the Alabama House of Representatives.

Angion said the timing was perfect for the 2021-22 school year, especially with most students learning virtual because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Funds will be used for 30 desktop computers, 20 laptop computers, provide internet and email access, install library media resources, provide library media assistance to students, technical assistance to staff and students and ZOOM accounts for social distance learning.

“These funs will help to provide students and educators an opportunity to learn and work from safe COVID environments,” Angion said.

“We are very grateful to Representative Chestnut for his support of Selma University’s effort to create servant leaders who help themselves, help others, help others to help themselves and help others help their communities.”

Chestnut said he was glad to help Selma University boost its student grant.

“It’s great to be in a position to be able to direct funding to worthy educational institutions like Selma University, who has educated to many people in Alabama and throughout the United States. We hope to give this institution a helping hand so that it makes advancements through technology and innovation, survives and ultimately thrive for decades to come.”

Selma University has a scheduled testing and vaccination event for faculty, staff and students on August 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the main campus. The event is open to the community.