FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. — For the ninth year in a row The Community Choice Foundation has awarded $100,000 in scholarships to 20 high school seniors from across Michigan. Each individual scholar received $5,000 toward furthering their education, and, as a prerequisite of receiving the award, each has pledged to attend school and build their careers in-state.
The Community Choice Foundation Scholarship Program is one of the largest scholarship programs in the credit union industry both in Michigan and nationally, and is designed specifically to keep Michigan’s young talent in the state. Since its inception in 2009, the program has awarded more than $900,000 in scholarships to 180 students in Michigan.
“The level of enthusiasm, motivation and dedication that we see in these young people is awe inspiring,” said Robert Bava, CEO of Community Choice Credit Union. “This year’s scholars have showcased how they volunteer their time at local shelters, coordinate anti-bullying campaigns, and participate in science competitions, all while making their education a top priority. They are motivated, passionate about Michigan’s success, and ready to have a positive influence on our state’s future. We are proud to play a part in helping them achieve that goal.”
Of the hundreds of students who applied, 20 scholars were chosen from around the state of Michigan. Each was evaluated on academic achievement, involvement in extra-curricular activities, and dedication to community service. All will be attending a Michigan-based college or university after graduation.
The students received their awards at a ceremony at Glen Oaks Country Club in Farmington Hills, Mich. The event featured Derek Kevra from Fox 2 as the master of ceremonies and Deirdre Greene-Groves, co-founder and executive director of Challenge Detroit as the keynote speaker and a former Community Choice Scholarship winner herself.
“Greene-Groves passionate advocacy for Detroit’s revitalization efforts as well as attracting and retaining top talent from Detroit to play a part in the city’s regrowth was a strong match for the Michigan-committed students,” Bava said. “The role she and Challenge Detroit have played in Detroit’s resurgence is a powerful example for our scholars.”