Gov. Cooper announces $51.4 million in education grants, new financial aid program "Students and educators across our state have faced challenges both inside and outside the classroom over the course of the pandemic," Governor Cooper said. Author: Meilin Tompkins Updated: 6:29 PM EDT May 24, 2021 RALEIGH, N.C. — Governor Cooper announced Monday that he has directed $51.4 million in new funding to help students access and complete postsecondary education as the state recovers from the pandemic. The governor will invest $44 million of the funds to help students access college and earn degrees starting this fall; $5 million to support mental health initiatives across state postsecondary institutions; and $2.4 million into equity-focused initiatives for K-12 and post-secondary students and families.