Capitola, CA – May 27, 2025 – Bay Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the winners of its 2025 Education Scholarship: James Parker, Laura Hodges, and Spike Sorensen. Each student will receive a $1,500 scholarship to support their educational journey.

Over the years, Bay Federal has awarded more than $94,000 in scholarships to help local students thrive in higher education.

“Every year, our scholarship recipients inspire us with their drive and commitment to building a brighter future,” said Carrie Birkhofer, Bay Federal’s President and CEO. “We’re honored to support these incredible individuals as they take the next step in their academic and professional goals.”

This year’s applicants were asked to share their thoughts on how technology impacts financial literacy and money management among their generation. They were also asked to suggest improvements to educational resources that would make them more accessible and effective for young adults and their broader communities.

Bay Federal Credit Union is a full-service, not-for-profit financial institution that serves over 92,000 members and 2,700 local businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties. With more than $1.7 billion in assets, Bay Federal is the largest member-owned financial institution in the region. The organization has been proudly serving its members and the community since 1957. Bay Federal is a certified Community Development Financial Institution, with a primary mission of promoting community development alongside their financial activities. Bay Federal has an award-winning employee volunteer program in which employees donate their own money and volunteer for numerous local schools, nonprofit organizations, and community events each year.