January 26, 2026
FirstLight Community Foundation is proud to announce the opening of its 2026 Scholarship Season
El Paso, TX – Building on the success of one of its most competitive scholarship years to date, the FirstLight Community Foundation is proud to announce the opening of its 2026 Scholarship Season, continuing its commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders across the Borderland region.
In 2025, the Foundation awarded $50,000 in scholarships to 35 students, selected from more than 720 applications representing over 50 high schools across El Paso, Fort Bliss, and Las Cruces. The strong response underscores the growing need for accessible educational support and reaffirmed the Foundation’s mission to empower students pursuing higher education.
“We take great pride in the achievements of the youth in our region,” said Margie Salazar, President & CEO of FirstLight Federal Credit Union. “At the FirstLight Community Foundation, our mission is rooted in empowering and supporting the next generation as they pursue higher education and lifelong success. We are excited to continue that mission with the launch of our 2026 scholarship season.”
Funding for the scholarship program is made possible in large part through the Foundation’s annual golf tournament and the continued generosity of sponsors, volunteers, and community partners.
“Exceeding our fundraising goals allowed us to sustain and expand our impact, ensuring more students have access to educational opportunities. Our employees and volunteers remain dedicated to building awareness, sponsorships, and in-kind support for area scholars.” said Anthony T. Walker, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Community Impact at FirstLight Federal Credit Union.
Continuing its commitment to innovation and accessibility, the FirstLight Community Foundation will again offer a Gen Z–friendly online application experience in partnership with Paso del Norte Community Foundation and Kaleidoscope. The platform replaces traditional paper applications and written essays with an interactive process, allowing students to submit short videos sharing how the scholarship would benefit them, their families, and their communities.
Applications for the 2026 FirstLight Community Foundation Scholarship Program are now open. Eligible students are encouraged to apply and take part in an opportunity designed to support not only academic goals, but long-term community impact.
