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 away, we’re proud to stand behind the students who are shaping their futures.
That’s why, in 2024, we expanded the SELCO Scholarship program to include vocational, non-traditional, and continuing education students. The result? A record-breaking number of applications last year and even more this year.
This surge of interest revealed something important. When students see a real path forward, they step into it with courage, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose.
2025 Richard Metzler Opportunity Scholarship
Among those students that applied was Madison Chimenti, 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
