Getting a degree while juggling a full-time job and, you know, life?
That’s always been the dream that feels just out of reach for most working adults. But Consumers Credit Union is trying to change that equation with a new partnership that actually makes sense.
The credit union just linked up with Cornerstone University to offer some pretty solid education benefits to both their employees and members. We’re talking real discounts and scholarships, not just a “good luck with that” and a pat on the back.
What’s on the Table?
Here’s the breakdown: Consumers employees and members now qualify for a 10% tuition discount on Cornerstone’s degree programs, whether you’re into the traditional on-campus experience or prefer learning in your pajamas via their online options.
But the more interesting piece? Cornerstone’s SOAR™ program comes with a scholarship worth up to $1,950. And before you ask—yes, SOAR stands for something, but more importantly, it’s a smartphone-based degree program. As in, you can literally earn your degree from your phone during your lunch break or while waiting for your coffee to brew.
Why This Matters
“We’re always looking for ways to invest in the people who make this organization go,” said Shawn Premer, chief human resources officer at Consumers. “Education changes trajectories. Partnering with Cornerstone gives our employees a real, accessible path to grow, and that benefits everyone they serve.”
Translation: when employees level up their skills and education, everyone wins. It’s not rocket science, but it’s nice to see a company actually putting resources behind that idea.
And here’s the part that sets this apart—the partnership isn’t just for employees. Credit union members get access to the same benefits. Whether you’re starting your degree journey fresh or you’re one of those people who got halfway through college before life got in the way, these benefits are designed to make finishing actually feasible.
Built for Real Life
Lisa Piatek, AVP of partner development for SOAR, gets straight to the point about who this program serves. “SOAR was designed for people who can’t put their lives on hold to earn a degree,” she explained. “Partnering with Consumers means we can reach more working adults who are ready to take that step and give them a scholarship to help make it possible.”
That’s the key phrase: can’t put their lives on hold. Because let’s be honest, most people can’t just quit their jobs, abandon their responsibilities, and become full-time students like they’re reliving their early twenties.
Cornerstone University, headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers accredited undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple formats. The SOAR™ platform specifically delivers complete degree coursework through a smartphone app, letting students chip away at their education whenever they can grab fifteen minutes of free time.
It’s education that fits into life, not life that has to reorganize itself around education. And with actual financial support backing it up, it might just work.