A longstanding connection and relationship to West Chester University has led Meridian Bank to be a proud supporter of its programs and fundraising events. Meridian Bank has historically contributed over $75,000 to West Chester University and recently donated $2,500 to their Fund to Finish Scholarship Program.

Created in 2018 by an anonymous donor, Fund to Finish provides support to traditional undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. Since December 2018, 117 students have been awarded $144,000 in aid.

This emergency funding becomes available when Financial Aid confirms a student has exhausted all other avenues of support. With this gift, students complete their degree without owing a balance to the institution.

“I am so grateful for the contribution the Fund to Finish Scholarship has provided me. This opportunity allows me to focus on completing my bachelor’s degree strongly. This is the exact support I needed to successfully pursue my goal of becoming a speech-language pathologist. I am forever appreciative for this generosity,” said Jessica Sawaged West Chester University, 2023 Communication Sciences and Disorders Major, Spanish Minor, Treasurer of National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA), and Team Leader of Fitness Programs at the Student Recreation Center.

Meridian Bank has sponsored various non-profits in the West Chester borough and surrounding areas. As Meridian’s branch and business banking team are located within the heart of West Chester, they support many local organizations including the, The Art Trust, Friends of Marshall Square Park, Bournelyf, Friends Association, The Hickman, and Chester County History Center.

The bank ensures the importance of being involved in the communities where its employees live and work and hopes that its support will change the trajectory of these students’ lives.

“This organization is managed by strong leaders including Chris Fiorentino, President of West Chester University, and Deb Cornelius, Executive Director of the West Chester University Foundation,” said Marc Pelletier, SVP, Regional Team Leader of Commercial and Industrial Lending.

“Meridian’s sponsorship of Fund to Finish is particularly rewarding. We believe that a rising tide lifts all boats. If we can help just one more student graduate from West Chester, we will help improve Chester County economy in the long run,” he continued.

Learn more at Meridian Bank.