Financial support available for continuing education
TUCSON, AZ (March 11, 2026) — Busey Bank is expanding access to educational support across its growing footprint through the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship, a program that will award $50,000 annually to help students and adult learners pursue continuing education. In Arizona, the scholarship is open to applicants residing in Maricopa and Pima County, where Busey now has a local presence through its acquisition of CrossFirst Bank. CrossFirst had previously entered the Tucson market through its 2023 acquisition of Canyon Community Bank.
“Supporting students as they pursue higher education is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the long-term strength of our communities,” said Deanna Capel, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing & Experience Officer. “We know the cost of continuing education can create significant financial strain for students and their families. The Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship is our way of helping ease that burden so students can focus on achieving their goals. When students are equipped to succeed, their progress creates lasting and positive change for the communities we serve.”
Through the scholarship fund, twenty $2,500 scholarships will be awarded annually across the Busey footprint. Funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, or supplies related to continuing education.
Eligible applicants must reside in one of the following counties:
Arizona: Maricopa, Pima
Colorado: Arapahoe, El Paso, Denver
Florida: Lee, Sarasota
Kansas: Johnson, Sedgwick, Wyandotte
Illinois: Champaign, Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Macon, Madison, McLean, Peoria, St. Clair, Tazewell, Will
Indiana: Hamilton, Marion
Missouri: Jackson, St. Charles, St. Louis, St. Louis City
New Mexico: Union, Harding
Oklahoma: Oklahoma, Tulsa
Texas: Collin, Dallas, Tarrant
Online applications are available at Busey’s scholarship page. The application deadline is June 3, and selected recipients will be notified by July 10. Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, with full details available through the scholarship program materials.