Supporting Education for Young Women
North Island Credit Union has once again reaffirmed its commitment to education and community support. In partnership with the North County African American Women's Association (NCAAWA), they have granted four college scholarships worth $1,000 each to promising local students. This initiative, now in its sixth year, continues to strengthen educational opportunities, particularly for African American women striving for higher education.
During the recent 2026 Salute to Scholars Celebration held at the El Camino Country Club in Oceanside, North Island Credit Union’s President and CEO, Steve O'Connell, emphasized the profound impact of these scholarships. "These awards symbolize more than just financial resources," he stated. "They represent the immense talent, dedication, and potential of our scholarship recipients. We are proud to play a part in their journey toward achieving their educational goals and shaping a brighter future."
The 2026 scholarship recipients exemplify ambition and dedication:
- - Amaya Huggins is pursuing a degree in Liberal Studies at California State University San Marcos after graduating from Sage Creek High School in 2023.
- - Courtney Huggins, also from Sage Creek High School, is majoring in Child and Adolescent Development at the same university.
- - Rosalinda Jolivette is furthering her studies in School Counseling at Hampton University.
- - Brianna Shea, a graduate of El Camino High School, is progressing toward her Ph.D. in School Psychology at Pace University.
Kafi Swaniker, Chair of the NCAAWA Scholarship Committee, praised the partnership with North Island Credit Union, stating, "We are thrilled to have such dedicated support that helps our recipients reach their educational aspirations. This collaboration has been pivotal in uplifting young women and providing them the tools they need to succeed."
Beyond the scholarships, North Island Credit Union is also committed to enhancing financial literacy among youth. Through the NCAAWA's Global Ambassadors Mentoring Program, they offer training that empowers young girls of color with leadership skills and financial education, while raising awareness about global issues that impact their personal and career development.
NCAAWA aims to create a supportive network that fosters education, health awareness, and life skills for women and girls in North San Diego County. To date, they have provided over $500,000 in scholarships, making a significant difference in the lives of many young women.
About NCAAWA
The North County African American Women's Association, founded in 1995, is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of women and girls through education and support. Its mission encompasses encouraging self-sufficiency and celebrating diverse ethnic backgrounds through programs aimed at elevating women in the community.
About North Island Credit Union
North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union, operates across San Diego and Riverside Counties. With a history dating back to 1933, they now serve over 200,000 members and manage nearly $5.4 billion in assets. Recognized as one of Forbes' Best-In-State Credit Unions for 2024 and 2025, their mission includes fostering financial stability in underserved communities and providing a comprehensive range of financial services to their members. For more information, visit
northisland.ccu.com and follow their social media platforms for updates.