VAPR FCU marks 75 years with student scholarships
As part of its 75th anniversary celebration, VAPR Federal Credit Union awarded 20 scholarships totaling $20,000 through the second edition of its “Futuro Brillante” Scholarship Program, doubling the number of recipients from last year.
The awards were presented Oct. 25 during a ceremony held in conjunction with Cooperative Month activities.
“At VAPR Federal Credit Union, we believe that every young person has the potential to achieve great goals when provided with the right tools,” said Eduardo Ortega-Vélez, VAPR board chairman.
“That’s why we reaffirm our commitment to the education and development of Puerto Rican youth through the Futuro Brillante Scholarship Program,” he added.
Scholarships of $1,000 each were granted to students from several educational institutions in Puerto Rico pursuing degrees in engineering, psychology, nursing, pharmacy, robotics and music.
“More than just financial assistance, this recognition represents our commitment to a new generation of leaders, creators and professionals who will make a difference,” said Pedro Toro-Cancio, board vice chair and head of the VAPR’s scholarship committee.
This year’s program focused on the theme of artificial intelligence. Applicants were asked to submit essays exploring how AI will influence their future professions. More than 150 applications were received, and selections were made by a committee of board members and executives based on academic performance and leadership potential.
VAPR CEO José Ernesto Ramos-Monell said the program supports the credit union’s broader goal of fostering financial literacy and professional growth among young people.
The credit union also launched a commemorative publication, “75 Years of History,” highlighting its legacy as Puerto Rico’s first federal credit union.
