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Joseph W. Gentry Educational Scholarship

Scholarship Details

TWO WINNERS Will Receive Scholarships of $2,500 Each! Application Deadline is 4/30/26. Winners will be notified in May.

2026 Scholarship Theme Question:

How can credit unions use tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Social Media to connect with younger audiences to educate them about money?

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

To receive the scholarship, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Applicants must be a Bridge Credit Union member, Struthers CU member, Yellow Springs CU member, or have a parent/guardian who is a member. The member must be in good standing (no charged-off loans or other account hardships caused to the credit union).
  2. Applicants must not be an immediate family member of any board members, or employees of the credit union.
  3. Must be accepted to attend an accredited college, university, trade association, or other continuing education program.  Verification of acceptance or enrollment will need to be submitted upon request, prior to distribution of funds.

Scholarship Evaluation Criteria

Your submission should be relevant to this year’s theme question. Please use practical examples and well-thought-out recommendations.  Submissions will be evaluated based on additional criteria such as:

  • Thoughtful ideas about AI and/or Social Media: How can these tools be used to educate and engage with younger audiences?
  • Understanding of Credit Unions: Discuss credit union values and mission.
  • Community Service: Discuss your involvement with the community or talk about ways you have volunteered or helped make a difference.
  • Career Direction: What career are you pursuing and why?
  • Financial Plan: What is the financial plan for your education? If you are selected as the winner, how would this scholarship assist you in your education?
  • Clarity of Communication:  Good spelling, grammar & punctation with written essays; Well organized thought process with videos, easy to hear and understand.
  • Creativity and Overall Presentation: Present your original ideas and unique perspective.

How To Apply

Applicants may submit either a traditional written essay, or provide a link to a video by clicking the application button below to be taken to an online form. Please fill out the form completely with your full name, contact information, current school status, and what college/trade school you will be attending.

Video Submission Guidelines
If submitting a video, please first read our video submission guidelines.

History of Joseph W. Gentry

In 1967, several ODOT employees came together and formed a credit union based on the cooperative philosophy of people helping people. One of these employees was Joseph W. Gentry, who served on the board of directors until he was appointed Director Emeritus. As Director Emeritus, Gentry represented the values and traditions upon which this credit union was built. He had two passions: the credit union and education. It is our privilege to carry on his legacy!

If you have any questions or concerns about your application, please email: Scholarship@bridgecu.org.