PremierOne Credit Union's Annual Scholarships Recognize Outstanding Student Leaders

PremierOne Credit Union's Annual Scholarships Awarded to Exceptional Students

On July 22, 2026, PremierOne Credit Union proudly announced the recipients of their annual scholarship program, awarding two distinguished student members with scholarships of $2,000 each. This program highlights the credit union's commitment to fostering leadership and community service among young individuals.

During an engaging recognition ceremony held on July 15, the scholars were celebrated not only for their academic success but also for their extraordinary contributions to their communities. The scholarships were awarded to Owen Lewis and Sonia Kumar, two exemplary students whose leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed.

Recognizing Leadership: Owen Lewis

Owen Lewis from San Jose is the proud recipient of the Robert E. DeBarr Memorial Scholarship for Leadership Skills. Graduating from San Jose High School in 2026, Owen has ambitious plans to attend the University of California, Santa Cruz, majoring in Engineering. His dedication to leadership was evident through his active participation in his school’s award-winning robotics program, where he held several key leadership positions. Owen prioritized the team's success over personal accolades, demonstrating his commitment to teamwork and servant leadership. Moreover, he has taken on the role of a youth leader in his local church, engaging in mentoring younger members and instilling in them the values of collaboration and integrity.

Commitment to Community: Sonia Kumar

The Richard Busse Memorial Scholarship for Community Commitment was awarded to Sonia Kumar, who plans to pursue a career in Computer Engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Sonia has made significant strides in her community through her remarkable record of service, leadership, and academic excellence. One of her notable achievements includes an internship with the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team, where she developed a web application designed to aid disaster victims in locating community resources rapidly. Sonia's leadership extends to her roles as a varsity tennis co-captain, robotics leader, and SAT tutor. She is also the founder of her school's Art for Activism Club and actively participates in programs like Girls Who Code and UNICEF. Her fervor for using technology to uplift and improve lives clearly positions her as a deserving recipient of this year's scholarship.

PremierOne's Commitment to Education

Andrea Brewer, the President and CEO of PremierOne Credit Union, congratulated both scholars, praising their accomplishments as not just markers of academic success but also reflections of compassion and genuine leadership. "We are proud to honor these remarkable students as they embark on their educational journeys," noted Brewer. "We eagerly anticipate the positive impacts they will make within their communities."

The PremierOne Scholarship Program annually recognizes two graduating high school seniors or undergraduate students who display exceptional leadership and commitment to community service. It serves as a tribute to the legacy of Robert E. DeBarr and Richard Busse, who contributed immensely to the community through their volunteer efforts.

About PremierOne Credit Union

PremiereOne Credit Union, with assets exceeding $650 million, is devoted to empowering its members to achieve a better financial future. Membership is accessible to anyone residing, working, attending school, or worshiping in various counties, including Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito, Alameda, San Mateo, Merced, San Joaquin, or Stanislaus. The credit union proudly operates six branch locations and offers its members access to nearly 5,000 shared branch locations and over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide via the CO-OP Network.

Through educational programs, community initiatives, and partnerships, PremierOne Credit Union continues to strengthen its relationship with the community while inspiring the next generation to lead with compassion and commitment.

For more information about the PremierOne Scholarship Program or to see how the credit union is making an impact, visit PremierOne Credit Union.