Ocean Financial FCU announces 2027 Patrick McNeill Memorial Scholarship

Oceanside-based Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union (OFFCU) is now accepting applications for the 2027 Patrick McNeill Memorial Scholarship, which awards four $2,000 scholarships and two $500 scholarships that are paid directly to each recipient’s college.  

Patrick “Pat” McNeill was an original director of the credit union when it was founded in 1969 and served on its board of directors for 12 years, including three years as chairman. During Ocean Financial’s earliest years, McNeill volunteered his time helping members secure loans at a time when the credit union did not yet have a permanent office, so much so that the organization has remembered those early years by saying, “Pat’s briefcase was the credit union.”

“Pat helped establish the culture of personal service and community commitment that continues to define Ocean Financial today,” said Joe Tedesco, president and CEO of Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union. “This scholarship allows us to honor that legacy while helping the next generation of our members pursue their education and build their own futures.”

The scholarship is open to Ocean Financial members who will be officially matriculated as first-time students in fall 2027 at an accredited two- or four-year college. Scholarship funds must be used exclusively for tuition and are paid directly to the college.

The deadline to submit an application is February 12, 2027. Applications are available at Ocean Financial branches or can be downloaded here.