WATERFORD, Conn.–Forty-five students were presented with scholarships valued at $90,000 by Charter Oak FCU CEOBrian A. Orenstein and Supervisory Committee Chairperson Joyce Gresh during the credit union’s annual scholarship reception.
For five consecutive years, the credit union has recognized the achievements of students throughout New London and Windham counties via its $90,000 scholarship giveaway, and has rewarded 221 students with scholarships totaling $442,000 during that time. Students vying for Charter Oak’s annual scholarships are required to submit a brief essay, in addition to highlighting their academic, athletic, and community accomplishments.
Charter Oak said its scholarship program is notable throughout the region for its guarantee to award 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. Additional scholarships are given to students already enrolled in college. Recipients of Charter Oak’s scholarships tend to excel academically and most importantly take an active role in supporting local community initiatives.
In addition to Charter Oak’s $90,000 scholarship giveaway, its employees awarded two separate scholarships through the employee-funded Community Outreach Program. Julian Faulk, a student at the University of Vermont, was awarded the $2,000 Community Outreach Memorial Scholarship, and Julianna Gray of Waterford High School was awarded the $2,000 Louise Jackson Community Outreach Scholarship.
Since the inception of Charter Oak’s Community Giving Program in 2009, the credit union has awarded more than $2.75 million in donations back to the community via its channels of giving that include scholarships, sponsorships, grants, and matching gifts.