The Gulf Winds Foundation awarded $25,000 in scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year to five outstanding students—Jacob Akers, Monessa McMillan, Breely Richardson, Lael Peterson, and Jessica Abraham! Each recipient receives $5,000 to support their educational pursuits and aspirations.

Gulf Winds is proud to announce we received 73 applications for our Scholarship Program, aimed at empowering students to achieve their higher education aspirations. Eligible candidates include members of Gulf Winds Credit Union, as well as their children and grandchildren. Our dedicated committee of Gulf Winds Credit Union employees carefully reviews each application, considering academic accomplishments, community involvement, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and financial need.

Our Impact

Since 2007, Gulf Winds has proudly granted $297,500 in scholarships to 75 students pursuing higher education.

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Jacob Akers - Foundation Scholarship

This fall, Jacob is set to embark on his journey at Auburn University, where he will pursue his passion for Physics. From a young age, Jacob's enthusiasm for physics and mathematics has driven him to explore these subjects deeply. His academic excellence is evident through his induction into the National Beta Club and his consistent presence on the Honors Principal List.

Beyond academics, Jacob has demonstrated leadership as a yearbook editor and commitment to community service with the Leo Club, where he organized donations for families in need. Looking ahead, Jacob plans to engage with the Student Government, join the physics society, and continue his dedication to tutoring fellow students at Auburn University.

Monessa McMillan - Foundation Scholarship

With aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, Monessa is majoring in Biology at the University of South Alabama this fall. Her academic excellence at T.R. Miller High School located in Brewton, Alabama, is complemented by her remarkable adaptability, demonstrated when she successfully transitioned from playing the clarinet to performing an oboe solo in just two weeks.

Beyond her musical talents, Monessa also thrived on the track field, competing in the 800m event and advancing to state-level competitions throughout her high school years.

Breely Richardson – Foundation Scholarship

Growing up in Brewton, Alabama, Breely recognized the limited availability of medical services and the inconvenient hours that didn't align with the community's needs. Now pursuing a degree in Public Health at the University of Alabama, she is determined to return to Brewton to establish a private practice with extended hours to better serve her community.

Inspired by a doctor who prioritized family care, Breely aims to bring that same dedication to her future practice. An outstanding student, she has excelled in multiple AP courses, served as secretary of the student government association, and contributed as a peer helper for three years.  

Lael Peterson – Rex Burt Trade Scholarship

Inspired by her great grandmother's compassionate care as a CNA, Lael is following in her footsteps and is pursuing a career in nursing. She plans to attend Locklin Tech in the fall for their Practical Nursing program.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Lael demonstrated leadership as the president of the drama club at Jay High School, managing several productions in her senior year. She also contributed as a reporter for the student government association and actively engaged in community service. With a genuine commitment to giving back, Lael is set to embark on a mission trip to Peru this summer to help build homes.

Jessica Abraham - Micah Williams Memorial Scholarship

Jessica is pursuing an associate degree in nursing at Fortis Institute, driven by her passion for the medical field. Her experience in a local doctor's office solidified her commitment to healthcare. She aspires to become a family nurse practitioner, dedicated to providing care for both children and adults.

Jessica has excelled academically throughout her school career and has participated in the Zero Robotics group coding robots for MIT, NASA, and the ISS. Additionally, she completed a summer research camp at the University of Virginia where she had the opportunity to work with the biomedical engineering department on Type 1 diabetes research.