Brayman-Beach Scholarship (UA1)

Investing in Colorado youth, and in turn, the future of the credit union movement

The Brayman-Beach Scholarship is named in honor of Susan J. Brayman and Carroll D. Beach, two visionary leaders of the credit union movement whose contributions have made a lasting mark. This unique scholarship opportunity celebrates their commitment to our community by investing in Colorado youth and, in turn, the future of the credit union movement. This scholarship is awarded annually to applicants seeking a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Eligibility

• At least 16 years of age
• United States Citizen
• A member of a Colorado credit union at the time of applying for the scholarship with the ability to provide proof of membership
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1
• Pursuing a degree in business (major or minor)
• Will be a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior at a four-year accredited institution conferring bachelor’s degree located in the U.S in the upcoming school year

Selection

Applications will be reviewed based on academic performance, extracurricular and community activities, references, financial needs, and personal and professional goals.

Additional information

Two $5,000 scholarships are awarded each year. Awards can be used for tuition, room, board, and student fees.

Renewal is not automatic for this award; however, applicants may reapply in subsequent years. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used by January 31 of the year following the award. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

How to apply 

1. Read through the eligibility to confirm you meet the requirements for the scholarship opportunity 
2. Log into scholarship lifecycle manager and apply for Universal Application 2025 – Cycle 2.
3. Prepare and submit the following items: 
   1. List of all extracurricular activities, community volunteering opportunities, and paid/unpaid work experiences you have had
   2. Transcript 
   3. Two letters of recommendation (academic or community)
   4. Essay of 500 words utilizing:
      1. You have been selected as one of the two finalists to run a newly chartered credit union that serves members under 25 years old. In order to be named CEO, you must discuss your creative ideas that will allow you to achieve several lofty goals by the end of the year. Using one of the options listed, please explain the strategies you would use to meet the objective established by the Board of Directors.
         1. Attract and hire the most innovative and energetic employees, with a budget that only allows for average salaries.
         2. Create and implement new products and services that will drive growth and revenue.
         3. Attract members and potential members to financial literacy classes that are not held in conjunction with the local schools or colleges.
         4. Develop a plan to collaborate with community leaders and businesses that will increase credit union market share.

Applications will not be considered unless they are completed in full, all requested documentation is provided, and the applicant is a member of a Colorado credit union at the time of applying.

Photo credit: MSU Denver/Alyson McClaran