Blaze Foundation Launches Scholarship Program

The Blaze Credit Union Foundation announced the launch of their 2024 Scholarship Program, committing $50,000 to support the educational aspirations of students in the communities that Blaze CU serves.

“We are honored to be able to encourage and support students continuing education through our Blaze Credit Union Foundation Scholarship program,” said Christine Cordell, Blaze Senior Vice President/Chief Project/Learning Officer and Chair of the Blaze Credit Union Foundation. “One of the pillars of credit unions is our commitment to community and giving back. Our scholarship program is a direct investment in the growth and development of students which is a vital part of the future and infrastructure of our community. Our scholarship program is designed to encourage students to invest in themselves which in turn enhances the overall wellness of our communities.”

The Blaze Foundation Scholarship Program is designed to address needs of three major groups:

Blaze Credit Union High School Branches

These scholarships are allocated specifically for students at Como, Harding, Highland, and Johnson High Schools in St. Paul, MN where Blaze Credit Union operate student branches. One $2,500 Traditional Scholarship is allocated for each high school.

Needs-Based Scholarships

These monies assist students who demonstrate financial need, ensuring that economic barriers do not hinder educational opportunities. Ten $2,500 Scholarships are allocated for this group and these scholarships are open to all students, regardless of membership status.

Blaze Member Scholarships

These awards are exclusive to Blaze Credit Union members. Six $2,500 Scholarships are allocated for this group, two of which will be designated for Traditional Students (current Minnesota high school student graduating in 2024) and four of which will be designated for Non-Traditional Students (a student who is either continuing or returning to higher-education endeavors.)

To be eligible for a Blaze Scholarship, the applicant must be a current student at a Minnesota high school (graduating in 2024), or a student who is either continuing or returning to higher-education endeavors. All applicants must be enrolled, accepted, or planning to attend a post-secondary, accredited school during the 2024-2025 school year.

Recipients will be selected based on need, academic performance, community involvement, volunteering, school activities, and other accomplishments, with consideration for first-generation college student. The applicants will also be required to submit an essay answering the question: “Who, or what experience, has had the greatest impact on how you make money decisions? Explain why.”

For more information and to apply, please visit the Blaze Credit Union Foundation Scholarship page.