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  2. Raymond A. Vinson Scholarship

Community First annually awards $8,000 in scholarships

Before his death in 1992, educator Raymond A. Vinson was a nationally known credit union pioneer. He helped form more than 40 Florida credit unions (including the Duval County Teachers Credit Union, founded in 1935, now Community First Credit Union of Florida). Vinson’s legacy of dedication, compassion and commitment to the credit union movement will forever touch lives. To honor Raymond A. Vinson, Community First annually awards scholarships annually to five college freshmen up to $8,000 ($2,000 annually per student, renewable for four years). Please fill out and return the scholarship application to the nearest branch location by March 1, 2022

Download Scholarship Application

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be a member or dependent of a member of Community First with an account in good standing for at least one year
  • Be an entering college freshman student and under the age of 24 at the application deadline
  • Demonstrate leadership ability and financial need
  • Attend a two-or-four-year public or private accredited college or university,
    preferably within the State of Florida.
  • Have a high school grade point average of at least 3.0 (unweighted).
  • Recipient may continue the scholarship on an annual basis until graduation, not to exceed four years. A GPA of at least 2.5 freshman year and 3.0 each succeeding year are required for continued eligibility

Selection criteria:

  • Academic qualifications: A copy of your high school transcript
  • Financial need: Applicants must include completed free application for Federal Student Aid.
  • Interview
  • Essay: 200-word essay explaining how the scholarship will help the applicant attain their educational and financial goals.
  • Two letters of recommendation: Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation from two of the following people: high school principal, teacher, or guidance counselor; religious or civic leader; and/or a current or former employer.
  • Community and leadership activities: Honors and awards
  • Please direct questions about the Raymond A. Vinson Scholarship to Paula Basihan at Community First Credit Union Headquarters, 904.371.7921

Helpful links:

*$2,000 is offered each year, per student, and is renewable for four years. Recipient may continue the scholarship on an annual basis until graduation, not to exceed four years. 

Rev. 11.21