Wildfire relief efforts, tuition discounts, and scholarships

Cornerstone League recognizes member credit unions’ news about their growth, expansion, and community endeavors to exemplify the “people helping people” philosophy.

Education Credit Union Foundation donates to wildfire relief efforts

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Education Credit Union Foundation, based in Amarillo, Texas, announced a $29,000 donation to assist organizations in Borger, Fritch, and Stinnett with their wildfire relief efforts. The breakdown includes $20,000 to the Hutchinson County United Way and $3,000 to each of the volunteer fire departments in Borger, Fritch, and Stinnett.

“The Texas Panhandle is a region that takes care of its own, and we are happy to be able to support these organizations in a time when many of our friends and neighbors need the extra help,” said Foundation Executive Director Matt Morgan. “We wish these types of things didn’t happen, but we count ourselves lucky to live in a part of the world where we help each other.”

“Education Credit Union formed this independent, nonprofit organization to increase the support we can give to our community,” said Education Credit Union CEO and ECU Foundation Board Chair Marcus Smith. “Our ability to adapt and respond to community needs as they arise is an added benefit of the Foundation.”

Red River CU partners with Texas A&M-Texarkana to offer tuition discounts for members

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Texarkana-based Red River Credit Union has announced its partnership with Texas A&M University-Texarkana (TAMUT) to empower members through educational opportunities. Through this collaboration, RRCU members will have access to an exclusive tuition discount program, providing significant benefits for those pursuing higher education at TAMUT.

RRCU members who enroll at TAMUT will receive a 25% tuition discount for classroom courses, easing the financial burden associated with pursuing a college degree. As a special incentive, RRCU members will enjoy their first class free as new students at TAMUT, further facilitating their transition into higher education.

“We are proud to partner with Texas A&M University-Texarkana in offering this incredible opportunity to our members," said Brad Bailey, CEO at RRCU. "Education is the cornerstone of personal and professional growth. Through this partnership, we aim to support our members in their pursuit of academic excellence while easing the financial strain often associated with higher education.

The partnership between RRCU and TAMUT underscores a shared commitment to empowering individuals within the community through education. Both institutions are dedicated to fostering a culture of lifelong learning and opportunity.

"The extension of this attractive educational benefit to RRCU members represents the next exciting phase of our strategic partnership," said A&M-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander. "I applaud RRCU's investment in the career and life development of their over 100,000 members."

Shell FCU announces recipients of the 2024 John Garrison Scholarships

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Deer Park, Texas-based Shell Federal Credit Union has announced the recipients of its 2024 John Garrison Scholarships. Since its inception in 2001, the John Garrison Scholarship has provided $537,500 to support 208 deserving students.

These scholarships pay tribute to John Garrison's enduring legacy of volunteerism and dedication to community service, and they exemplify Shell FCU's unwavering commitment to fostering education and empowering deserving students within its community.

"We are thrilled to recognize these outstanding individuals for their achievements and potential," said Salma Hartley, scholarship committee chairwoman at Shell Federal Credit Union. "We are confident they will continue to excel and make a positive impact."

The 2025 John Garrison Scholarship application will open in early October 2024. High school seniors planning to attend a college, university, vocational, or technical program are eligible to apply.

Shell FCU remains committed to empowering individuals and enriching communities through education and financial support. As a member-owned institution, Shell FCU is proud to invest in the future of our community by providing opportunities for growth and success.