Veterans United Foundation announced the distribution of $200,000 in educational scholarships to 25 military families this fall, marking the largest single-year disbursement in the program's 14-year history.
The recipients, selected from applicants nationwide, include veterans with service-connected disabilities rated at 100% and surviving spouses and children of service members killed in the line of duty. They are pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in medicine, nursing, engineering, law, public health, social work, psychology and other fields at institutions across the country.
"These 25 scholars represent the very best of our military community," said Erik Morse, board president of Veterans United Foundation. "Their resilience, dedication, and ambition inspire us every single day."
The scholarship program, launched in 2012, has distributed more than $2.15 million to 235 military families since its inception. The foundation's reach extends across 22 states and Washington, D.C.
Nearly 90% of employees at Veterans United Home Loans, the mortgage company whose charitable arm runs the scholarship program, contribute a portion of their salary to the foundation. The company matches those contributions dollar-for-dollar, generating more than $157 million since the foundation's establishment in 2011.
The selection process evaluates demonstrated need and merit. Applicants submit personal essays detailing the impact of their service or loss, while reviewers assess financial circumstances and community involvement. The foundation sends scholarship payments directly to accredited institutions rather than to individuals, ensuring funds are used for tuition, textbooks, lab fees and qualifying housing.
Eligibility requires applicants to hold a 100% service-connected disability rating or be a surviving spouse or child of a service member whose death was service-related.
This year's recipients are pursuing degrees across diverse fields, including artificial intelligence management, reflecting broader economic and technological shifts.
Applications for the 2027 scholarship cycle will open in spring. Interested applicants can find eligibility details and application materials on the foundation's website.
