Georgia United Credit Union's 2014 Scholarship Programs

Named for the founder of the Credit Union, the Vernon E. Carne scholarship focuses on a short essay of 250 words or less. This year's topic is "Explain how the credit union philosophy of 'people helping people' helps consumers during these difficult economic times, while providing an alternative to large commercial banks." In addition, students should complete a Georgia United scholarship form and include a copy of their high school transcript and a letter of acceptance from the college or technical school they will attend. Students (or their parents) must be members of Georgia United, and are encouraged to include information regarding financial need, scholastic standing, special achievements, and leadership.

For an online application and program rules, visit georgiaunitedcu.org or contact us at (770) 476-6409, to request for an application to be mailed. All entries must be sent to Georgia United's Marketing Department, 6705 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 300, Duluth, GA 30097 by March 1, 2014. Winners will be announced April 1, 2014, and the decision of the judging panel will be final.

The Vernon E. Carne Scholarship for $10,000 will be distributed as follows:

• 1st Place Recipient: $3,000
• 2nd Place: $2,000
• 3rd Place: $1,000
• Top Eight Runners-Up: $500 each

Georgia United also offers two Catholic Scholarships,  in memory of Archbishop Emeritus John F. Donoghue.

The $2,500 Archbishop Emeritus John Francis Donoghue Scholarship award will be distributed as follows:

• 1st Place: $1,500
• 2nd Place: $1,000

As with the Vernon Carne Scholarship, applications, rules and guidelines for the Donoghue Scholarships may also be found at georgiaunitedcu.org. And, their essay question is: "Describe how membership in a credit union can provide an opportunity to connect with one of the seven themes of Catholic social teaching, especially in difficult financial times like today."