Gerald J. Ring/Beth Haseleu Scholarships
Avestar Credit Union offers four scholarships. Two for graduating seniors and two for current adult students who are enrolled in a higher education institution with at least six credits.
High School Scholarships
Scholarship Amount
Avestar Credit Union will be awarding two $1000 scholarships to two high school seniors. The scholarship may not exceed the total cost of tuition as billed by the school. The scholarship funds will be sent directly to the school.
Eligibility Requirements
· You have been a primary member for 3 months
· There is activity on your account within the 3 months
· You are a high school senior
· Your total cumulative GPA is a 3.0 or higher
· You are enrolled for at least 9 credits for the Fall semester
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on the following five categories.
· Community service & volunteer work
· Employment experience
· Extra-curricular activities
· Essay
· GPA
Deadline
The completed application, essay, and transcript must be submitted by April 15, 2026.
Applicant Must Submit
1. An official high school transcript reflecting the most recently completed semester. This must be received by the close of business day April 15, 2026.
2. An original of each of the following:
a. Completed and signed Avestar Credit Union Scholarship Application
b. Typed, double-spaced essay 500 words or less on the following topic:
What influenced your choice of this major and how do you plan to use your studies to achieve your future career plans?
Awarding of Scholarships
Decisions will be made by the Avestar scholarship committee. All scholarship decisions will be made by May 1, 2026, and all decisions are final. All applicants will be notified by mail by May 30.
Questions: Please contact Avestar Credit Union by phone at 608-271-5301 or e-mail agraese@avestarcu.com.
Continued Education Scholarships
This scholarship application is for current adult students who are enrolled in a higher education institution with at least 6 credits.
Scholarship Amount
Avestar Credit Union will be awarding two $500 scholarships to two adults or nontraditional students participating in a continuing education program. The scholarship may not exceed the total cost of tuition as billed by the school. The scholarship funds will be sent directly to the school.
Eligibility Requirements
· You have been a primary member for 3 months
· There is activity on your account within the 3 months
· You are enrolled for at least 6 credits for the Fall semester
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on the following four categories.
· Prior Education/life experience
· Community service & volunteer work
· Employment experience
· Essay
Deadline
The completed application, essay, and transcript must be submitted by April 15, 2025.
Applicant Must Submit
1. An official high school transcript reflecting the most recently completed semester. This must be received by the close of business day April 15, 2025.
2. An original of each of the following:
a. Completed and signed Avestar Credit Union Scholarship Application
b. Typed, double-spaced essay 500 words or less on the following topic:
What influenced your choice of this major and how do you plan to use your studies to achieve your future career plans?
Awarding of Scholarships
Decisions will be made by the Avestar scholarship committee. All scholarship decisions will be made by May 1, 2026, and all decisions are final. All applicants will be notified by mail by May 30.
Questions: Please contact Avestar Credit Union by phone at 608-271-5301 or e-mail agraese@avestarcu.com.
In Memoriam
Gerald Ring was a founding member of Members First Credit Union in 1954 and served as a Director for nearly 70 years. In recognition of his extraordinary dedication and lifelong service, he was honored with the title of Director Emeritus in 2023. Gerald passed away in 2025, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and commitment to the credit union and its members.
Beth Haseleu dedicated 35 years of service to Avestar Credit Union, where she was known for her passion for helping members succeed and her deep love for her work. Beth passed away in 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. She will be remembered for her compassion, professionalism, and the meaningful impact she had on members and colleagues alike.