Union Awards Record $74K in Scholarships to 37 Students

Rachel Albernaz is heading to Regis College this fall with more than just her diploma from Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School. She's carrying a scholarship from Teamsters Local 25, part of a record-breaking commitment to the next generation.

The union just awarded $74,000 in scholarships to 37 students, the largest class in its history. These aren't just checks in the mail. They represent years of union members setting aside funds to lift up their kids and grandkids.

Albernaz, from Rehoboth, is the daughter of David Albernaz, a Local 25 member who works at M.S. Walker. She joins 36 other students whose parents and grandparents belong to the union that represents 13,000 workers across New England.

The scholarships were presented at the union's May general membership meeting. President Tom Mari told the room full of families that the support goes beyond dollars.

"We have the strongest membership in the country and among the most generous when it comes to supporting the children of our members," Mari said. "Your future is bright, and your Teamster family will be with you every step of the way."

The Ripple Effect

The funding came from union members themselves, along with supporting organizations and companies. Multiple law firms, insurance groups, and special memorial funds chipped in to make the scholarships possible.

Since 2006, Teamsters Local 25 has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars to help members' families reach their educational goals. What started as a modest program has grown into a major pipeline supporting students across Massachusetts and beyond.

The union's Hispanic Caucus and Retiree Chapter also sponsored awards, showing how different corners of the organization came together. When working families pool their resources, they create opportunities that might otherwise stay out of reach.

For 37 families this spring, college just got a little more affordable, and the path forward got a little clearer.