2026 Andrew Sharp Scholarship Program
Compass Credit Union is proud to continue our annual scholarship program in honor of Andrew Sharp, whose dedicated service on our Board of Directors enriched our members, staff, and communities.
Beginning in January 2026, applications will be available at Compass Credit Union at 485 S State Street in Sparta and 115 S Stone Rd in Fremont, Michigan, and online at compasscu.com/scholarship. Student applicants will be chosen based on academic standing, community service, and a letter of recommendation. Along with these items, students are also asked to submit an essay. Under the Program, two (2) $1,000 scholarships will be awarded.
Available Scholarships
Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors pursuing:
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A two-year or four-year college degree, or
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An apprenticeship or certification in a selected field.
Program Guidelines & Priorities
Seeking graduating seniors with a record of volunteerism in the community through non-school-sponsored activities and participation in extracurricular school activities.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
To apply, you must be a senior in high school. You must also be a member in good standing with Compass Credit Union (hereafter referred to as “the Credit Union”) by February 28, 2026. If you are not currently a member, you may join the Credit Union by February 28, 2026, provided you belong to one of the required fields of membership. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Who is not eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Anyone who is not a senior in high school, members not in good standing as defined by Credit Union policies and procedures, and employees, volunteers, and immediate family members of employees and volunteers are not eligible to apply.
If I win the award, but do not attend an accredited school in the fall, do I still receive the scholarship?
No. You must verify enrollment in an accredited college, university, or trade school for Fall 2026 to receive the award. If enrollment cannot be verified, the scholarship will be awarded to a runner-up.
Do the application materials need to be postmarked or received by the deadline?
All application materials must be received by the Credit Union no later than March 3, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. If submitting close to the deadline, applicants are encouraged to drop off materials in person at either Compass Credit Union location.
How much is the award, and how can it be used?
Each scholarship award is $1,000 and must be used toward tuition, books, student fees, or other qualified educational expenses.
What documents must be included with the scholarship application?
To be considered, applicants must submit all of the following:
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A completed scholarship application form
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A letter of recommendation
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A copy of the most recent academic transcript
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A list of extracurricular activities and honors
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An outline of community involvement
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A brief 1–2 page essay
How will applications be judged?
Applications will first be reviewed to confirm membership eligibility and completeness. Qualified applications will then be evaluated based on:
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Solid academic performance (minimum GPA of 2.5)
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Commitment to community involvement
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Participation in extracurricular activities
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Ability to respond to the essay question clearly, thoughtfully, and effectively
Where should completed applications be submitted?
Applications and all required materials may be dropped off at a local Compass Credit Union office or mailed to:
The Scholarship Committee
Compass Credit Union
485 S State St
Sparta, MI 49345
When will the winners be announced?
Winners will be notified just prior to the Annual Membership Meeting and officially announced at the meeting on March 25, 2026.
Scholarship Disbursement
Scholarship funds will be paid in July and August 2026 directly to the student’s accredited college, university, or trade school. Funds will not be paid directly to the student. Students are responsible for submitting an invoice, student ID number, and school information to the CEO at the time of disbursement.
Questions
Please direct any questions to:
operations@compasscu.com