Y-12 Credit Union celebrates record number of 2024 Bill T. Hicks Scholarship applicants
OAK RIDGE, TN (November 7, 2024) — Y-12 Credit Union is thrilled to announce a historic milestone for the 2024 Bill T. Hicks Scholarship Program, with a record-breaking 181 applicants. This year’s applicant pool marks the largest in the scholarship’s 14-year history, representing a 35% increase from the previous year. This surge highlights the commitment of students across our community to further their education and impact following graduation.
According to recent data from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), 56.7% of Tennessee high school graduates enrolled in college in 2023. This strong interest aligns with Y-12 Credit Union’s commitment to empowering the next generation through educational support, including financial literacy initiatives.
The Bill T. Hicks Scholarship, named in honor of former Y-12 Credit Union board member and dedicated Oak Ridge educator, has become a prestigious award among local youth. Each year, the scholarship supports six graduating seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and a dedication to making a difference. Each recipient is awarded a $5,000 scholarship to help them pursue higher education.
“It’s inspiring to see so many young people eager to further their education,” said John Nolan, head of the scholarship program. “This year’s selection process has been more competitive than ever, with some of the highest GPAs we’ve seen on record.” On November 4, 57 finalists from 21 area high schools advanced to the second round of the selection process, where they’ll submit a video essay. The six recipients of the Bill T. Hicks Scholarship will be announced in February.
Y-12 Credit Union is also proud to report that this year’s applicants reflect an exceptional range of diversity and career aspirations. Last year, 66% of recipients were from minority backgrounds, including Hispanic, Pakistani, and Indian communities.
“This diverse group of students illustrates Y-12 Credit Union’s commitment to supporting all East Tennessee graduates who aspire to continue their education,” added Nolan.
For more information about the Bill T. Hicks Scholarship or to learn how Y-12 Credit Union is helping build stronger futures, visit the Bill T. Hicks Scholarship page.
Left to right: Brian Sams (Y-12 Credit Union), Jenna Hammer (Y-12 Credit Union), Qaswa Gul (Class of 2024 Bill T. Hicks Scholarship recipient), John Nolan (Y-12 Credit Union)
About Y-12 Credit Union
Y-12 Credit Union was founded in 1950. Their 74-year legacy is built on innovation, community, and a member-centric approach to banking. Throughout an eight-county East Tennessee footprint (Anderson, Knox, Blount, Loudon, Roane, Sevier, Campbell, and Union), 16 physical branches and a virtual branch option provide an easy banking experience wherever you are. To learn more about Y-12 Credit Union and the many ways you can join, visit the website, or stop by one of their convenient branch locations.
