Six New Jersey-based students were awarded scholarships to advance their college and career aspirations.

The Affinity Foundation has announced the recipients of its 2025 higher education scholarship program. Since its founding in 2005, this initiative has supported student members of Affinity Federal Credit Union in their pursuit of two- or four-year degrees. Each spring, the Affinity Foundation evaluates applicants based on academic performance, community engagement, and local leadership.

“It’s been a privilege to carry this program forward and engage with such exceptional students,” said Kelly Watts, Executive Director of the Affinity Foundation. “This year’s candidates truly inspired us with their academic achievements and deep commitment to their communities. We commend their passion and perseverance.”

After careful consideration by the scholarship committee, the Affinity Foundation has selected six award recipients for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. The committee is proud to grant them $2,500 each to pursue their educational goals.

The 2025 Affinity Foundation scholarship winners include:

1. Brock Brunson, Eastern University (Class of 2029)
2. Samantha Jankowski, DeSales University (Class of 2029)
3. Jayden Jenkins, Montclair State University (Class of 2028)
4. Peris Muigai, Eastwick College Hackensack (Class of 2026)
5. Lauren Ryan, Syracuse University (Class of 2029)
6. Vinav Shah, Stanford University (Class of 2029)

The Affinity Foundation granted The Robert L. Birkhahn Community Spirit Scholarship to Brunson, Jankowski, Ryan, and Shah. This award honors Affinity’s late Executive Vice President, Robert “Bob” L. Birkhahn, who embodied the community values that it celebrates. Jenkins and Muigai are recipients of The Affinity Continuing Education Scholarship for current undergraduate students continuing their education.

To apply for a scholarship, students must be Affinity Federal Credit Union members and United States residents. They must provide an essay or video discussing an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of their community. In addition, applicants must submit two letters of recommendation and a full account of their academic information, extracurricular activities, honors, awards, community service, and work experience.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every student who applied,” said Kevin Brauer, Chief Executive Officer and President of Affinity. “This year’s applicants made up an extraordinary group, each demonstrating compassion, drive, and a strong commitment to making a difference in their communities. We wish this year’s recipients continued success as they pursue their academic goals.”

Since the launch of this program, the Affinity foundation has awarded over $248,000 in scholarships to New Jersey students. The Foundation looks forward to supporting its fellow community members and enabling more students to pursue their dreams through higher education.

About the Affinity Foundation

The Affinity Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 2005 to carry out the philanthropic work of Affinity Federal Credit Union. We invest in local organizations that deliver programs aimed at alleviating financial stress and helping people reach financial independence, empowering them in the pursuit of educational, employment and individual goals, and providing peace of mind for financially disadvantaged individuals and their families. Through our volunteer efforts, we connect charities with skilled professionals to elevate their mission, provide financial education resources and strengthen communities. The Affinity Foundation is a registered nonprofit organization, you can further our mission by donating today (EIN #20-2706810).

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