WATERFORD, Conn.–Charter Oak Federal Credit Union has awarded $90,000 in 2020 scholarships to 45 high school and college students in New London and Windham counties in recognition of their outstanding academic and community achievements.
“Once again, our selection committee was greatly impressed by the significant achievements of these students, from their strong academic results to the countless hours they spent helping their local communities,” said President/CEO Brian A. Orenstein. “This year's selection process was especially competitive with nearly 200 applications from very well qualified students,” he said.
Since 2015. when Charter Oak first expanded its annual scholarship program, the credit union said it has proudly awarded $528,000 in scholarships to 264 students in eastern Connecticut. Students who are members of Charter Oak compete for the annual scholarships by submitting a brief essay and highlighting their academic, athletic, and community accomplishments.
As part of Charter Oak’s community commitment to its members, the credit union has pledged 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, when available, are given to students already enrolled in college. Recipients of Charter Oak’s scholarships excel academically but also take an active role in supporting local community initiatives.
In addition to Charter Oak’s $90,000 annual scholarship awards, employees awarded two separate scholarships through their employee-funded Community Outreach Program. Jeffrey Andruskiewicz, a student at Norwich Free Academy, was awarded the $2,000 Community Outreach Memorial Scholarship and Jada Fuentes, a student at Lyme-Old Lyme High School, was awarded the $2,000 Louise Jackson Community Outreach Scholarship.