TowerCares Foundation Awards $200,000 in Scholarships to Support Future STEP Leaders

40 students pursuing STEM degrees received a $5,000 scholarship, with over half having ties to the U.S. military or Department of Defense.

For University of Georgia senior Robert Fuss, becoming a doctor isn't just a career goal-it's a way to make a difference around the world.

Fuss, who is majoring in Biology, plans to pursue a career in medicine after graduation. A $5,000 scholarship from the TowerCares Foundation will help him achieve his dream of becoming a physician.

"This scholarship will allow me to explore the intricacies of healthcare in South Africa where I will be able to provide my service to others and learn about the differences in global healthcare systems and practices," Fuss said. "Without this generous scholarship, opportunities like this would not be a possibility."

Investing in the Next Generation

Fuss is one of 40 students receiving a $5,000 TowerCares Foundation college scholarship for the 2026-27 academic year, representing a $200,000 investment in the next generation of students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Since 2018, the TowerCares Foundation, the charitable arm of Tower Federal Credit Union, has awarded $910,000 in college scholarships.

This year's recipients are studying fields ranging from nuclear engineering and computer science to cellular biology, forensic science, and chemistry. More than half have one or both parents who currently serve or have served in the U.S. military.

"TowerCares is proud to invest in the next generation of STEM leaders," said Rick Stafford, President of the TowerCares Foundation. "And we believe the children of those who serve our country deserve every opportunity to reach their full potential. These scholarships are an investment not only in their education, but in the future they will help shape."

Supporting Students with Purpose

For Arizona State University junior Kristin Wojcik, the scholarship is helping her realize her goal of becoming the first in her family to graduate college.

"I am incredibly grateful to the TowerCares Foundation for supporting my journey toward becoming a first-generation college graduate," Wojcik said. She plans to use the award to complete her degree in Graphic Information Technology and pursue a career in full stack software development.

Scholarship recipient Theodore Marshall says TowerCares has helped make attending his dream school a reality.

"The TowerCares scholarship is allowing me to attend my dream school, the University of Florida!" he said. "I am now able to focus on my academic success for my future career in electrical engineering and eventually contribute to improving the world."

Removing Barriers, Creating Opportunity

The TowerCares Foundation Scholarship Program is open to current high school seniors and college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors pursuing careers in STEM. The program is open for online applications annually from April 1 to May 15.

Recipients are selected by an independent judging organization based on academic achievement, leadership, school/community involvement, work experience, and educational/career goals. Additional consideration is given to children and dependents of active-duty military members and Veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces, including Reserve and Guard units, as well as military civilian employees.

The Foundation received nearly 400 applications this year-the most in the program's history-from students committed to making a difference.

"Selecting just 40 winners was no easy task," Stafford said. "These remarkable young men and women are passionate about using their education to improve the world around them. The scholarship program helps remove financial barriers so these talented students can turn their ambitions into opportunities."