SALT LAKE CITY – America First Credit Union (AFCU) has announced a $500,000 endowment to Utah Valley University (UVU) for the university’s Gary R Herbert Institute for Public Policy.
According to the credit union, the gift will support the school’s program for Government and High-Impact Internships based in Washington.
“UVU says the number one barrier for students applying for internships in D.C. is the personal cost,” America First said. “Most families cannot afford the significant expenses associated with this type of program, particularly for those living in underserved populations. In addition to their tuition, UVU students participating in the program have additional expenses such as housing and a higher cost of living. The Utah federal delegation pays interns $2,000 a month for more-than-full-time work, while some other internships are unpaid. The need for financial support for the program is evident.”
The funding will support the America First Credit Union Undergraduate Fellowship Program. AFCU’s $500,000 gift will allow UVU to send its “best and brightest students to Washington, D.C., to participate in the life-changing experience,” AFCU said.
‘Life-Changing Experience’
“Not long ago, Governor Herbert met with our team about the importance of educating tomorrow’s leaders,” said Nicole Cypers, vice president of governmental affairs at AFCU. “We talked about the importance of internships in government and how gaining experience in Washington can be a life-changing experience for students. We know this is an expensive opportunity that not everyone can afford. With this in mind, America First Credit Union is thrilled to announce a $500,000 endowment to support UVU’s Herbert Institute interns serving in federal offices on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.”
According to UVU President Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez, the grant will allow the university to send an additional 15 interns each year to high-impact and government internships in Washington.