Four ambitious students just scored $1,000 scholarships each, courtesy of a partnership that proves what can happen when organizations actually walk the walk on community investment.
North Island Credit Union and the North County African American Women’s Association (NCAAWA) have been at this for six years now, and they’re not slowing down. Their latest round of scholarships went to four local students who are already making moves in higher education.
“We’re honored to continue our partnership with NCAAWA and support the incredible work they do to expand educational opportunities for young women in our communities,” said Steve O’Connell, President and CEO of North Island Credit Union. “These scholarships represent more than financial support—they reflect the talent, determination and potential of each recipient. We’re proud to help invest in their futures and the impact they will make in the years ahead.”
Meet the 2026 Scholarship Recipients
Let’s talk about who’s getting this well-deserved support:
- Amaya Huggins graduated from Sage Creek High School in 2023 and is now pursuing Liberal Studies at California State University San Marcos.
- Courtney Huggins, also a Sage Creek grad from 2023, is diving into Child & Adolescent Development at Cal State San Marcos.
- Rosalinda Jolivette is studying School Counseling at Hampton University.
- Brianna Shea, an El Camino High School alum, is going all the way—she’s working on her Ph.D. in School Psychology at Pace University.
The scholarships were handed out during NCAAWA’s 2026 Salute to Scholars Celebration on May 13 at El Camino Country Club in Oceanside. Picture caps, gowns, proud families, and the kind of energy that makes you believe in investing in the next generation.
“We are very proud of our wonderful NCAAWA scholarship recipients and are grateful to North Island Credit Union for their continued support to help these young women reach their educational goals,” said Kafi Swaniker, who chairs NCAAWA’s Scholarship Committee.
But Wait, There’s More
The partnership doesn’t stop at handing out checks (though that’s obviously important). North Island Credit Union also provides financial literacy training to high school students in NCAAWA’s Global Ambassadors Mentoring Program. Think of it as teaching these young women not just how to receive financial support, but how to manage it, grow it, and use it as a springboard.
The program focuses on leadership development, financial education, and helping girls of color understand the global issues that’ll shape their personal and professional lives. Pretty comprehensive stuff.
The Bigger Picture
NCAAWA’s mission is all about building a support network through education, health awareness, and life skills programs for women and girls in North San Diego County. And they’re putting their money where their mission is—to date, they’ve awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships.
That’s half a million dollars invested in futures, in dreams, and in breaking down barriers to education. Not too shabby for a community organization that clearly understands the assignment.
Related:
North Island Credit Union Delivers Holiday Toys & Gifts to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego
North County African American Women’s Association & North Island Credit Union Partner to Offer 2025 Student Scholarships