EDWARDSVILLE, Ill., Aug. 2 -- Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville issued the following news release:

For students facing a serious illness,injuryor mental health challenge, stepping away from college may sometimes be necessary. But the financial consequences of withdrawing can make an already difficult decision even more complicated.

SIUE is introducing a new resource to help students and families prepare for such unexpected circumstances. ThroughGradGuard, eligible SIUE students will have theoptiontopurchasetuition insurance that may help protect their financial investment if they must completely withdraw from the University for a covered reason.

The initiative, spearheaded by the SIUE Bursar's Office in collaboration with Studen...