Oregon Credit Union Awards $77K in Student Scholarships

When Ethan Amato opened his acceptance letter for a SELCO scholarship last year, he felt an enormous weight lift off his shoulders and his parents' too.

The University of Oregon freshman from North Bend is now studying pharmacology and co-leading the school's first-ever Pharmacy Club, free from the constant worry about making tuition payments. He's one of the success stories driving SELCO Community Credit Union's decision to open scholarship applications again on February 1.

SELCO will award $77,500 total to 21 students this year. Twenty students will each receive $3,500, while one Lane County student facing adversity will earn the $7,500 Richard Metzler Opportunity Scholarship for demonstrating excellence despite challenges.

What makes this program different is who qualifies. High school seniors planning four-year degrees can apply, but so can adults returning to finish their education, students attending trade schools, and anyone pursuing vocational training.

"Students approach education differently than they once did," said Craig Carpenter, SELCO's Senior Vice President of Lending & Business Banking. The credit union was founded by teachers 90 years ago, and that educational DNA still drives how it gives back today.

The application window stays open through March 31. To qualify, students need a 3.0 GPA or GED, must plan to attend an accredited institution or vocational school, and either be a SELCO member themselves or have an immediate family member with membership.

The flexibility extends to how students spend the money too. Unlike scholarships restricted to tuition, SELCO's funds can cover any educational expense, addressing the real financial pressures students face.

The Ripple Effect

Now in its 36th year, the scholarship program is part of SELCO Steps Up, a broader initiative launched in 2024. In 2025 alone, SELCO poured nearly $415,000 back into Oregon communities through educator grants, scholarships, and sponsorships, while team members volunteered almost 1,700 hours.

The focus on diverse student populations matters because cost remains the biggest barrier keeping people from pursuing education. By welcoming nontraditional students, SELCO acknowledges that not everyone follows a straight path from high school to college, and that technical training deserves the same support as four-year degrees.

For Amato, the scholarship meant more than just financial relief. It gave him the freedom to focus on his studies and take leadership roles like starting the Pharmacy Club, investments in his future that might have been impossible under heavier financial strain.

Membership is open to anyone living or working in the 27 Oregon counties SELCO serves, making the scholarship accessible to families across much of the state. Winners will be selected by a scholarship panel, with funds distributed by the end of June.

Applications are now open at selco.org/scholarships.