COA awards 30 SECU Bridge to Career Scholarships to workforce students

Published 5:11 pm Thursday, June 5, 2025

: Shown, from left, are Lucretia White, COA chair, academic foundations and teacher prep, and associate professor of academic foundations, English, and SECU Advisory Board member; Dr. Jennifer Lopes, COA vice president of learning; Myriah Wolfrey, SECU assistant branch manager, Elizabeth City – 17 N.; Robin Zinsmeister, COA dean of workforce development, public services and career readiness, and campus administrator for Edenton-Chowan; and Michelle Spence, SECU Advisory Board member. Courtesy COA

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College of The Albemarle (COA) has announced that all 30 scholarships available through the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation’s Bridge to Career Scholarship Program have been awarded to students pursuing workforce training in high-demand fields across northeastern North Carolina.

These $500 scholarships are helping students earn credentials in Truck Driver Training, Nurse Aide I, Pharmacy Technician, EKG Technician, EMT, Phlebotomy and Paramedic programs.

“This program opens doors for students who are ready to take the next step but need that extra help to get there,” said Robin Zinsmeister, COA’s dean of workforce development, public services and career readiness; campus administrator, COA – Edenton-Chowan. “Whether they’re starting fresh, changing careers, or building on their experience, these scholarships help them move forward—and transform their tomorrow.”

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The SECU Bridge to Career Program is designed to reduce financial barriers for North Carolina residents working toward state-regulated or industry-recognized credentials. Students may use the funds for registration, books, credentialing exams, supplies, transportation, childcare and more. Priority is given to individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, military veterans or spouses, members of the North Carolina National Guard, and others from underserved communities.

“The SECU Foundation’s commitment to ‘People Helping People’ directly aligns with the mission of College of The Albemarle,” said Dr. Jack Bagwell, president of COA. “Together, we’re helping people gain better skills and create better futures for themselves, their families, and our region.”

“This scholarship program is an essential piece of SECU Foundation’s support for education and workforce development,” said Jama Campbell, SECU Foundation executive director. “We’re proud to stand alongside North Carolina’s outstanding community colleges to help students gain the tools they need for strong, successful futures.”

“College of The Albemarle remains committed to supporting learners of all ages as they pursue better skills, better jobs, and a better future in our communities,” noted a COA news release.

To learn more about workforce training opportunities at COA, go to albemarle.edu/wdce or call 252-335-0821.

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