The Pensacola-based credit union has now given $342,500 to 80 students since launching its scholarship program in 2007.
The Gulf Winds Foundation announced today that it has awarded up to $45,000 in scholarships to five student members of Gulf Winds Credit Union. Myiah Alverson, Ellie Nissim, Sarah Schultz, Colton Rollin, and Emma Grayce Fuqua were selected from 62 completed applications evaluated on academic achievement, community involvement, personal essays, letters of recommendation and financial need.
Four recipients received renewable scholarships of up to $10,000 each; one received a renewable award of up to $5,000.
“At Gulf Winds, we believe that education has the power to transform lives, families, and communities. We are proud to recognize these outstanding students who have demonstrated that they dream big and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in their communities and beyond.”
— Daniel Souers, President and CEO
Meet the 2026 Recipients
Myiah Alverson — Incoming Higher Education Scholarship. Alverson, a graduate of Flomaton High School, will study Nursing at the University of Alabama this fall with aspirations of becoming a neonatal nurse. Her interest in the field was sparked by her sister’s experience with a congenital disease. She was active in the Leo Club and the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce Youth Ambassador program, and earned two All-American Cheerleader recognitions.
Ellie Nissim — Incoming Higher Education Scholarship. Nissim will pursue International Studies at Florida State University. Inspired by the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics and her involvement with the Gulf Coast Youth Diplomats, she has focused on cross-cultural diplomacy. She served as a Class Senator and volunteered with Camp Dream Street, supporting children with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
Sarah Schultz — Incoming Higher Education Scholarship. Schultz, from Brewton, Alabama, will study Music in Vocal Performance at Samford University. She plans to return to her hometown to provide arts mentorship after graduation. She served as Vice President of the National Honors Society and participated in multiple AP courses and community events.
Colton Rollin — Rex Burt Trade Scholarship. Rollin will attend Bishop State in the fall to pursue the school’s Lineman program, following in his brother’s footsteps. He was recognized as an Academic All-Star all four years at Flomaton High School and was active in basketball, golf, tennis, and community service through his church youth group.
Emma Grayce Fuqua — Micah Williams Memorial Scholarship. Fuqua is studying Nursing at the University of South Alabama, where she is a member of the Blue Key Honor Society and Alpha Omicron Pi. She aspires to serve on hospital boards as a community advocate and volunteers at Wilmer Hall, a Mobile residential support facility for children and young adults in need.
About the Program: Gulf Winds launched its scholarship program in 2007. This year’s awards bring the program’s total to $342,500 awarded to 80 students. Scholarships are open to members of Gulf Winds Credit Union. Gulf Winds operates 12 branches across North Florida, Southern Alabama, and Southern Georgia with more than $1.3 billion in assets.
