Here’s some genuinely good news: Mid-Atlantic Federal Credit Union just wrote a check for $50,000 to Montgomery College, and it’s all about giving students a real shot at building solid careers and financial futures.
Think of it as an investment in the people who’ll be running Montgomery County tomorrow. The money isn’t just sitting in some fund collecting dust—it’s going directly toward scholarships, workforce training, and the kind of practical support that actually helps students cross the finish line.
More Than Just Banking Business
Mid-Atlantic FCU has been part of the Montgomery County fabric for over 55 years, so this isn’t some random corporate photo op. Tamara Schiavone, the credit union’s CEO, put it pretty plainly: “We believe strong communities are built by creating opportunities for people to build better futures.”
The $445 million credit union is one of the first to jump into Montgomery College’s Pathways to Excellence Partnership Program—basically a matchmaking service that connects local businesses with the college to create real opportunities for students. With more than 47,000 students, Montgomery College is a major pipeline for the workforce that keeps Montgomery County and the broader D.C. region humming.
Where the Money Actually Goes
At an August 11 event on the Rockville Campus, Mid-Atlantic FCU handed over the contribution to the Montgomery College Foundation. Now the Foundation can deploy those funds where they’ll make the biggest difference—whether that’s covering tuition, helping students pay for certification exams, or funding hands-on learning experiences that look great on a resume.
“Financial well-being goes beyond what happens inside a branch or through a banking app,” Schiavone explained. “It’s also about access to education, skills and opportunity.”
Translation? Real financial health isn’t just about having a savings account. It’s about having the education and skills to actually fill that account in the first place.
First Movers Get the Recognition
Dr. Jermaine F. Williams, Montgomery College’s President, didn’t hold back his appreciation. “Mid-Atlantic Federal Credit Union is one of the very first organizations to step forward in this way, and we are deeply grateful for their investment in our students and their futures.”
Being first has its perks—namely, everyone remembers who showed up when it mattered. And for students facing real barriers to completing their education, this kind of support can be the difference between dropping out and walking across that graduation stage.
Bottom line? This partnership is about removing obstacles and creating pathways—not just to a degree, but to careers that lead somewhere meaningful.