ST. PAUL, Minn. (June 19, 2018) – The Affinity Plus Foundation has announced the winners of its Annual Scholarship program, awarding $40,000 to members pursuing higher education. 

The Affinity Plus Foundation’s Annual Scholarship recognizes Affinity Plus members for their leadership, character, community building and pursuit of education. Scholarships are awarded proportionally (based on applications) to students in four categories:

• incoming freshman – students new to college and coming directly from high school;

• current students – undergraduate students, sophomores through seniors;

• graduate students – those pursuing an advanced degree beyond undergraduate studies;

• non-traditional students – individuals not attending college directly out of high school, or those who had a break in their education between years, such as working adults returning to school.

“This year’s scholarship winners demonstrate exceptional drive and demonstrate leadership in many areas of their lives,” said Kristina Wright, Affinity Plus Foundation board chair. “From volunteering in the community to serving in the military to raising children, each has their own unique story and drive to make the world a better place.”

Applications are evaluated by external judges all of whom are licensed Minnesota educators. The following individuals received $5,000 scholarships in the Foundation’s 2018-2019 Annual Scholarship program:

• Michael B., Baxter

• Noah I., Bemidji

• Maria K., Plymouth

• Katelyn N., Shakopee

• Justin H., St. Paul Park

• Klarissa W., Battle Lake

• Lauren H., Lake Crystal

• Michael N., Elko

Additional information on the 2018-2019 scholarship winners can be found here: www.affinityplusfoundation.org/scholarship/winners.

CAMPUS SCHOLARSHIP

The Affinity Plus Foundation also offers a Campus Scholarship program each year to recognize students positively impacting their campus communities while attending local universities and colleges.

Six $3,000 scholarships are designated for state universities where Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union has a branch presence on or near campus. Four additional scholarships are available to students attending Minnesota-based technical and community colleges. The locations include:


• Bemidji State University

• Minnesota State University – Mankato

• Minnesota State University - Moorhead

• St. Cloud State University

• University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

• Winona State University

• A Minnesota-based technical or community college

The Campus Scholarship program application period opens each year in August and closes Oct. 31. Recipients are selected and notified before the end of each year. 

ABOUT THE AFFINITY PLUS FOUNDATION
Founded in 2000, the Affinity Plus Foundation is a 501(c)(3) serving Minnesota communities. The Foundation administers its own scholarship programs, awards grants to non-profit groups and schools, and supports financial education initiatives through partnerships, presentations and resources. The Foundation operates on funds generated from its annual events; from Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union; and from generous donations from community members who believe in and support the mission of the Foundation.