Our promise this year was to build on what we helped create last year—expanded eligibility for our scholarships, which meant widening eligibility to vocational, non-traditional, and continuing students.
At SELCO, we’ve always believed that education creates opens doors to new possibilities, stronger communities, and a better future for all. Whether it’s pursuing a college degree, enrolling in a trade program, or returning to school after some time way, we’re proud to stand behind the students who are shaping their futures.
That’s why, in 2025 we continued our commitment to expanding access through the SELCO Scholarship program. Building on changes introduced last year, we once again widened eligibility to include vocational, non-traditional, and continuing education students. The result? Our largest applicant pool to date, providing us with 21 inspiring scholarship recipients across the state of Oregon.
Not only did we see more submissions than in 2024, but we also doubled the number of applicants since 2021—a reflection of both increased awareness and the growing need for accessible educational funding.
2025 Richard Metzler Opportunity Scholarship
Madison Chimenti was this year's Richard Metzler Opportunity Scholarship recipient. This scholarship is given to one student who shows exemplary perseverance and purpose in their drive to continue their education.
“When I received my SELCO Scholarship I was actually in my AP Comparative Government class, talking with my teacher. I answered the phone call in front of him and the call was from Jacob at SELCO,” said Madison Chimenti, recipient of the Richard Metzler Opportunity Scholarship. “I broke down in tears in front of my teacher—it was a really amazing phone call to get and I don’t think I’ve ever felt happier about something,” said Madison Chimenti.
Madison plans on pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bard College in New York in the fall of 2025. She also explained to us why moving across the country was the right thing to do for college.
“I’m studying psychology. I’ve had a lot of great mentors in therapy and law in the past, and psychology, I think, is going to be a really great starting point to start my future career in law. I chose Bard because of its unique location in New York,” said Chimenti. “I really crave being near the outdoors and being able to explore. Bard gives me the opportunity to travel to New York City, but also the opportunity to go explore in the mountains and forest whenever I want to.”
Stories, like Chimenti’s, bring everything full circle for us at SELCO. To all this year’s recipients—congratulations. We’re proud to be a part of your journey and can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.
Congratulations, SELCO Scholarship Class of 2025
And now, as we celebrate the 2025 SELCO Scholarship recipients, we’re reminded of the impact that education can have on individuals and entire communities. Our scholarship program continues to evolve to meet students where they are, and we are proud to support them at this stage of their educational journey.
This year’s recipients were from various parts of Oregon, including Eugene, Springfield, Junction City, Albany, Portland, Bend, North Bend, Sutherlin, and Medford.
See a full list of our 2025 SELCO Scholarship recipients below:
Published May 13, 2025
