Lafayette, LA – One Acadiana (1A) has announced the launch of the organization’s annual scholarship program and is ready to continue making an impact under a new title. One Acadiana’s Return to Learn Scholarship will award students continuing their education at select post-secondary education institutions in Acadiana.
As the region’s leading economic development organization and Lafayette’s Chamber of Commerce, One Acadiana is focused on strengthening Acadiana’s workforce and business environment. This scholarship provides a unique opportunity for local students to receive the financial assistance necessary to earn their degree or certificate.
While many high school graduates receive funding and assistance as they enter their freshman year, fewer scholarship opportunities exist for students continuing their education. To address this, 1A’s Return to Learn Scholarship will award students who are returning to school, either for their last semesters or after time away, to help them cross the finish line.
“When our students gain the credentials necessary to fill high-demand roles, our region thrives,” said One Acadiana President & CEO, Troy Wayman. “This scholarship is a direct investment in our workforce by providing local students with the financial assistance needed to earn those credentials, setting them up for opportunity and success here in Acadiana.”
One Acadiana is seeking donations from members of the regional business community to fund the scholarship and help the organization reach their goal of awarding $15,000 in scholarships to local students across the region.
Since the start of the scholarship program in 2021, One Acadiana has awarded nearly $60,000 dollars to more than 35 students across the region thanks to the generous donations from business and community leaders. The organization is currently accepting donations to the scholarship fund.
Donors will receive the following recognition:
- Name/Company logo featured on the 1A Return to Learn Scholarship webpage
- Name/Company logo featured across 1A’s social media channels
- Personal invitation to 1A Scholarship Reception with the opportunity to meet and congratulate recipients
Eligible students are those returning to post-secondary education institutions that are members or investors of One Acadiana.
These institutions currently include:
- Academy of Interactive Entertainment
- Blue Cliff College
- Louisiana State University – Eunice
- Remington College
- South Louisiana Community College
- Unitech Training Academy
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Students must be enrolled, full-time or part-time, in a four-year degree program, two-year degree program, or one that qualifies for the M.J. Foster Promise Program. Students must also have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA (good academic standing), earliest graduation date of Summer 2025, and meet the following additional requirements according to their program:
- Four-year Institutions/Programs:
- Have a minimum of 60 credit hours complete
- Two-year Institutions/Programs:
- Have a minimum of 1 semester complete
- Institutions/Programs Qualifying for the M.J. Foster Promise Program:
- Must be currently enrolled as of Summer 2025
Scholarship applications are open now through May 2.
To donate, apply for the scholarship, or learn more visit OneAcadiana.org/ReturntoLearn