Crow Wing Power is proud to announce the distribution of $85,500 in scholarships to 57 member-dependents pursuing higher education and an additional $10,000 to support future lineworkers in 2024. This initiative exemplifies the cooperative's commitment to the community and the importance of investing in education.
In alignment with one of our core principles, "Concern for Community," Crow Wing Power is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of our younger generation. We recognize the critical role education plays in shaping the future and are committed to supporting students in their educational pursuits.
The scholarship program is open to students from approximately eleven area high schools within Crow Wing Power’s service territory. Eligible member-dependents can receive a one-time scholarship ranging between $1,000 - $1,500 to assist with educational expenses. Unlike traditional scholarship criteria, our selection process does not prioritize GPA. Instead, it emphasizes the character and potential for future educational success of each applicant. High school seniors work with their guidance counselors to navigate the application process, which includes writing an essay and ensuring that the applicant is a member dependent of Crow Wing Power.
In 2021, Crow Wing Power introduced the Non-traditional Student Scholarship. This scholarship is designed for students attending non-traditional schools (private, online, or charter) or first-time college students enrolling one or more years after high school graduation. This initiative broadens our support to include a diverse range of educational paths.
Since 2014, Crow Wing Power has awarded $725,000 to member-dependent students, demonstrating our commitment to education. Funding for these scholarships comes from unclaimed capital credits, which are designated for educational institutions within our service territory, ensuring they benefit the local community.
Minnesota Statute allows the cooperative to use unclaimed capital credits for charitable purposes after seven years. Instead of turning these funds over to the state, Crow Wing Power reinvests them in the community through educational scholarships.
For more information about Crow Wing Power’s Scholarship Program, click here, or if you are a member-dependent contact your local high school guidance counselor.