FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Maps Community Foundation Supports Student Success with $25,000 Grant to Western Oregon University
SALEM, OR — (May 8, 2025) – Maps Credit Union and the Maps Community Foundation are proud to announce a $25,000 capital grant in support of Western Oregon University’s new Student Success Center, a centralized, student-focused space designed to help students thrive academically and professionally.
The recently completed Student Success Center, which celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April, provides essential services including tutoring, advising, career counseling, writing support, and disability access resources—all under one roof. The Maps Community Foundation grant specifically funded a shared conference room space that supports the Disability Access Services program.
“Maps Credit Union has deep roots in education, and we are honored to help bring this powerful new resource to life for WOU students,” said Kim Hanson, Executive Director of the Maps Community Foundation. “We believe the Student Success Center will make a lasting impact and help ensure all students have access to the tools, support, and real-world experiences they need to succeed—not just while they are in college, but for many years to come.”
Maps Credit Union has been a longtime partner of WOU through sponsorships, volunteerism, and financial education initiatives, including support for the Smith Fine Arts Series and campus-wide events.
The Student Success Center was made possible through a combination of state funding, private philanthropy, and community partnerships. Through the grant, Maps joins a group of dedicated supporters who share a vision for equitable student success.
As Oregon’s oldest public university, WOU serves approximately 4,000 students—many of whom are low-income, first-generation, and students of color. The new Student Success Center stands as a highly visible and meaningful symbol of inclusion and support on campus.
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About Maps Credit Union
Maps Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative dedicated to helping people and communities thrive. Serving Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley since 1935, Maps Credit Union was founded by teachers and built on a belief in education, service, and community. Today, as a community-chartered credit union, anyone who lives, works, or learns in the Willamette Valley Basin is eligible to join Maps. With more than 80,000 members and 10 branches, Maps offers banking that puts people first. Through our mission, Every Member Benefits, Maps focuses on providing affordable loans, competitive savings options, and personalized financial solutions. And, as a proud partner in local schools, nonprofits, and neighborhoods, Maps gives back through financial literacy programs, charitable giving, and hands-on community involvement.
To learn more about Maps Credit Union and its community impact efforts, visit www.mapscu.com.