WATERFORD, Conn.–Charter Oak Federal Credit Union held its annual scholarship reception where its president and chief executive officer, Brian A. Orenstein, presented 45 college scholarships totaling $90,000.
During the reception, 45 community minded students were recognized for their academic achievements as well as creativity in answering this year’s essay question, “You were just gifted $50,000, but you can’t spend a dime on yourself. In 500 words or less, tell us how you would spend the money.”
For the third year in a row, the credit union committed to awarding one $2,000 college scholarship to one college-bound senior at each high school within New London and Windham counties with an attendance of at least 100 students. Charter Oak’s scholarship program is unique when compared to other scholarship programs offered within the region, offering students more favorable opportunities at winning a $2,000 scholarship. Additional scholarship opportunities were also offered to college students.
The credit union received more than 250 scholarship applications, including applicants from 26 of the 34 qualified high schools within New London and Windham counties.
In addition to Charter Oak’s $90,000 scholarship giveaway, its employees awarded two separate scholarships through the employee-funded Community Outreach Program. Nathan Cherenzia, student at Norwich Free Academy, was awarded the $2,000 Community Outreach Memorial Scholarship; and Cindy Fan, a student at Robert E. Fitch High School, was awarded the $2,000 Louise Jackson Community Outreach Scholarship.
Charter Oak has awarded more than $2.1 million to eastern
Connecticut communities through its Community Giving Program by way of college scholarships, grants, and sponsorships.