RALEIGH, N.C., May 02, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Twenty-three State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation scholarship recipients gathered this past Saturday on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro to take part in a Scholars’ Day pilot program hosted by SECU staff. The participants, who received their scholarships in 2013-2016, were invited for a day of personal and professional development involving educational sessions, personal finance activities, career exploration, networking and local community service. Members of SECU and SECU Foundation’s Board of Directors were also on hand, including Foundation Board Chair Jim Johnson, who welcomed attendees.
During his opening remarks, Johnson gave an overview of SECU Foundation’s mission and purpose, also noting, “As SECU scholars, you have proven leadership experience, strong engagement in your local community, integrity and excellence of character, and you share SECU Foundation’s strong commitment and philosophy of helping others. Our goal today is to help you prepare for a successful future through educational and professional enrichment experiences, connecting you with fellow scholars and assisting you with navigating college life and finances.”
The pilot program, which may be replicated in other areas of the state, included students from the Triad who are currently attending the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Winston-Salem State University, Forsyth Technical Community College and Guilford Technical Community College. Credit Union staff, several who are SECU “People Helping People” scholar alumni, hosted the Scholars’ Day presentations and activities.
“I’ve learned a lot at Scholars’ Day and met some really nice people – people from my school who also received the SECU Foundation scholarship who I would have never met if I hadn’t attended,” said participant Tronjay Davis. “It was very beneficial to network and meet credit union professionals who shared valuable information, from college tips to graduation and financial tips. This was a great experience and I can’t think of a reason not to attend an event like this if you have the opportunity.”
About SECU
A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the State of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for nearly 80 years. The Credit Union also offers a diversified line of financial advisory services including retirement and education planning, tax preparation, insurance, trust and estate planning services, and investments through its partners and affiliated entities. SECU serves 2.2 million members through 257 branch offices, nearly 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone and a website, www.ncsecu.org.