ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – College of The Albemarle (COA) is excited to announce that all 30 scholarships available through the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation’s Bridge to Career Scholarship Program have been awarded to students pursuing workforce training in high-demand fields across northeastern North Carolina.
Photo from left: Robin Zinsmeister, Dean, Workforce Development, Public Services and Career Readiness, Lindsey Fogel, SECU Vice President City Officer, Wayman White, COA Information Technology Director and SECU Advisory Board Member.
These $500 scholarships are helping students earn credentials in Truck Driver Training, Nurse Aide I, Pharmacy Technician, EKG Technician, EMT, Phlebotomy and Paramedic.
“Investing in students is an investment in the future of our communities,” said Robin Zinsmeister, COA’s Dean of Workforce Development, Public Services and Career Readiness; Campus Administrator, COA – Edenton-Chowan. “These scholarships provide the financial support many students need to complete their education, develop in-demand skills, and prepare for meaningful careers.”
The SECU Bridge to Career Program is designed to reduce financial barriers for North Carolina residents working toward state-regulated or industry-recognized credentials. Students may use the funds for registration, books, credentialing exams, supplies, transportation, childcare, and more. Priority is given to individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, military veterans or spouses, members of the North Carolina National Guard, and others from underserved communities.
“The partnership between the SECU Foundation and College of The Albemarle reflects our shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening our communities,” said Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President. “These scholarships help remove financial barriers, allowing students to focus on earning the skills and credentials that lead to meaningful careers and long-term success.”
“Supporting students through higher education is one of the most impactful ways we can invest in North Carolina’s future,” said Jama Campbell, SECU Foundation Executive Director. “Through the People Helping People Scholarship, we are honored to partner with community colleges like College of The Albemarle to help students achieve their educational goals and prepare for rewarding careers that benefit their communities.”
College of The Albemarle remains committed to supporting learners of all ages as they pursue better skills, better jobs, and a better future in our communities. To learn more about workforce training opportunities at COA, visit www.albemarle.edu/wdce.
For information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, Executive Director, Public Relations and Institutional Engagement, at 252-335-0821 ext. 2420, or [email protected].
About College of The Albemarle
College of The Albemarle (COA) serves as the regional community college for Northeastern North Carolina, fostering educational excellence at the heart of the communities we proudly serve. With a rich and expansive history, COA offers accessible, high-quality education to students across Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Pasquotank and Perquimans counties. Our four campuses, strategically located throughout the region, reflect our commitment to student success. At COA, we empower individuals, transforming lives and shaping the future of our region. Discover your potential with College of The Albemarle, where education meets opportunity.
About SECU and SECU Foundation
A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members and federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), SECU has been providing employees of the state of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for over 86 years. SECU is the second largest credit union in the United States with $50 billion in assets. It serves nearly 2.8 million members through 275 branch offices, over 1,100 ATMs, Member Services Support via phone, www.ncsecu.org, and the SECU Mobile App. The SECU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization funded by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high-impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Since 2004, SECU Foundation has made a collective financial commitment of over $258 million for initiatives to benefit North Carolinians statewide.