California’s Credit Unions is on the verge of achieving a major goal as its Cal State University DC Scholars Program surpasses $925,000 — with only $75,000 remaining to hit the $1 million target.
While the California league wants to express its immense gratitude to every contributor for strengthening the credit union advocacy pipeline in Washington, D.C., the clock is ticking to close the gap and meet the $1 million mark. Click here for more information.
The DC Scholars Program addresses financial barriers that prevent talented students from gaining policy experience in Capitol Hill. By offsetting the high cost of living in the nation’s capital, the endowment will guarantee future legislative staffers and policy advisors begin their careers with a foundational understanding of the credit union movement.
“While not every intern becomes a congressional staffer, nearly every current staffer once began their journey as an intern,” said Stephanie Cuevas, senior vice president of federal advocacy for California’s and Nevada’s Credit Unions, who began her own career as a congressional and White House intern. “This investment ensures that those who eventually hold key positions in the federal government know credit union difference.”
This partnership with the Cal State University system provides access to a talent pool across 23 campuses throughout California, allowing local credit unions to connect with students who may eventually become political or policy professionals on Capitol Hill. Many participants are first-generation college students, many of whom come from modest means. By providing these scholars with $2,500 grants, many graduates have already found success as senior advisors in the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, the Treasury Department, and the White House.
Credit unions that are interested in contributing are encouraged to submit their pledges immediately. The final payment for these pledges is due by February 15 (the deadline was recently extended from February 1).
Interested credit unions can learn more or finalize their participation by emailing Stephanie Cuevas.
As of late January, 50 credit unions have pledged over $925,000 to the scholarship program; and as of January 15, the California league and CSU Foundation have received more than $580,000 in funds.
Thank you to the following credit unions and organizations for sponsoring this scholarship program:
