FirstBank awards $105K in scholarships to university students
FirstBank has awarded $105,000 in scholarships to 42 university students as part of its YOU First Scholarship Program, expanding a multiyear effort to support students with financial need.
With the latest awards, the bank has granted more than $365,000 in scholarships since 2021, the institution said, citing rising education costs and the need to broaden access to academic opportunities.
“The cost of education and academic training remains one of the greatest challenges for Puerto Rican youth. By expanding the YOU First Scholarship Program, we reaffirm our vision that investing in education is investing in our country’s progress,” said Ginoris López-Lay, executive vice president and director of strategic management and business development at FirstBank.
“Each scholarship represents an opportunity to build a stronger economy and a better-prepared society,” she added.
Sara Álvarez, executive vice president and general legal counsel, said the program forms part of the bank’s broader approach to community engagement.
“Our mission goes beyond offering financial services; it’s about creating social impact. We firmly believe that education has the power to transform lives and communities,” she said. “By providing equitable access to academic opportunities, we are laying the foundation for a more competitive and prosperous Puerto Rico.”
Students from six higher-education institutions received scholarships during a recent ceremony: Pontifical Catholic University, Ana G. Méndez University System, Inter American University, Polytechnic University, the University of Puerto Rico and Sacred Heart University.
The YOU First College Program integrates scholarships with academic advising, mentoring, professional exposure and leadership development intended to help students transition into the workforce.
