ROMULUS, Mich. – A TikTok plea for help with college tuition has turned into a life-changing moment for one Wayne State University student—thanks to the CEO of a local credit union.
Paris, an undergraduate facing nearly $3,000 in unpaid tuition, posted a heartfelt video on TikTok hoping for support to complete her final year. She didn’t expect it to reach Dean Trudeau, CEO of Public Service Credit Union—but it did.
Moved by her determination, Trudeau visited her GoFundMe and personally covered the remaining balance. PSCU then shared its response in a TikTok video, highlighting both the impact of social media and the credit union’s commitment to community.
“This is who we are—people helping people,” Trudeau said. “Paris didn’t just need financial help. She needed someone to believe in her, and we’re proud to be part of her journey.”
Paris’ story mirrors PSCU’s mission to empower individuals and invest in their future. The credit union said her resilience is a reminder of the real people behind every account—and the importance of showing up when it counts.
“When we say ‘your story matters,’ we mean it,” Trudeau added. “This wasn’t about a transaction, it was about connection. Paris’ story reminded us of the power we all have to show up for each other, and how community can lift people when it matters most.”
Thanks to that support, Paris is now preparing to begin her final year, the CU added.