BayPort Credit Union Allocates $100,000 for Student Tuition Assistance in 2026 Program

BayPort Credit Union Invests in Education

In an impressive move to bolster local education, BayPort Credit Union has inaugurated its 2026 Scholarship Program with a substantial investment of $100,000 dedicated to providing tuition assistance. This initiative is geared towards supporting high school seniors, college students, and working adults in developing essential skills for local industries, thereby fueling economic growth in the region.

BayPort's commitment to educational support spans across various demographics, ensuring that students of all ages have access to financial resources needed for pursuing their studies at universities, colleges, or vocational schools. The 2026 program will grant 36 scholarships across 12 distinct categories, with individual awards ranging from $1,000 to a remarkable $8,000.

Scholarship Categories and Availability

Eligible high school seniors can apply for several specific scholarships, including the Beard Bennett Memorial Scholarship and the Student-Run Credit Union Member Scholarship, both tailored for students attending partner high schools affiliated with BayPort. Additionally, college students pursuing either undergraduate or graduate degrees can look forward to opportunities like the Directors Scholarship or the Rowe Family Scholarship.

There are also targeted scholarships for students of the Virginia Peninsula Community College, including the Donald I. Steppe Memorial Scholarship, Julie Heldreth Memorial Scholarship, and McGee Family Scholarship, all designed to support aspiring students in their educational journeys.

Recognizing the pressing need for skilled labor in various trades, the program also includes targeted scholarships to support workforce development. The Tuition Booster Scholarship specifically assists full-time professionals who are furthering their education while working. Moreover, the Wright Family Scholarship and the Wiatt Memorial Apprentice School Scholarship are dedicated to apprentices and graduates of Newport News Shipbuilding's Apprentice School, emphasizing practical training in skilled trades.

Application Process

With applications for the 2026–2027 academic year open until March 31, 2026, interested individuals are encouraged to visit bayportcu.org/foundation for more information on eligibility criteria and application procedures. This initiative underscores BayPort's dedication to fostering educational growth, skill development, and career preparation in the community.

A Legacy of Commitment

BayPort Credit Union was established in 1928 by a small group of shipyard workers from Newport News Shipbuilding who aimed to create a reliable source for low-interest loans and a safe place for saving. Today, the institution has evolved significantly, managing approximately $2.6 billion in assets and catering to over 154,000 members through 29 branch locations across the Virginia Peninsula and Southside communities. The credit union continues to be recognized for its exceptional service quality and financial integrity, earning a Superior 5-Star rating from Bauer Financial.

This investment in education is yet another reflection of BayPort's commitment to serve not just its members, but also the broader community, enhancing prospects for upcoming generations and fostering a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of an evolving economy.