BANNOCKBURN, Ill.–Great Lakes Credit Union has awarded a total of $20,000 in scholarship aid to members and member-employees furthering their education as part of its commitment to serve and empower its communities. GLCU awarded eight recipients a $2,500, which they can use the funds for tuition, accommodations, books, or other college-related expenses during their academic journey, the credit union said.
For students to be eligible for the scholarship, they needed to be a GLCU member; planning to attend or currently attending an accredited post-secondary institution or technical vocational or trade school; and have a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA on a 4.00 scale.
GLCU said this year was the first year it expanded the scholarship program to include two employees. To qualify for the two scholarships designated for GLCU team members, applicants needed to have been employed at the credit union for longer than 90 days, be a GLCU member, be enrolled in classes totaling more than eight credit hours at a higher education institution, and be pursuing a degree related to the potential advancement of the credit union or the financial industry.
Scholarship candidates were evaluated by the Scholarship Committee, comprised of GLCU employees, who diligently reviewed each student’s academic achievements, community involvement, letters of recommendation, as well as the quality of their submission video.
To congratulate the recipients, the credit union held a special reception at its headquarters, where the awardees were treated to a colorful spread of food and drinks, were formally awarded their recipient certificates; listened to inspiring words from Steven Bugg, president and CEO of GLCU, and Stephen Park, GLCU Board chair; and took celebratory photos with their families.
“We are thrilled to be able to help make education more accessible for members and employees in the diverse communities we serve. It’s rewarding to see GLCU’s scholarship program empowering such bright recipients on their paths toward even brighter future endeavors,” said Bugg.