Students in Central Massachusetts can apply now

Cornerstone Bank, a community bank with 12 locations throughout central Massachusetts, will be awarding sixteen scholarships for $2,000 each to students in the area it serves. Cornerstone Bank is hoping to help 2021 high school graduates throughout their community pursue higher education and foster advancement in the fields of business and finance. The sixteen scholarships will be awarded to the students who best demonstrate achievement in academics, extracurricular activities and community involvement.

“Making sure the future leaders of America get a great education is so important to us at Cornerstone Bank,” said CEO Todd Tallman. “We are excited to be able to help students achieve their dreams every year to go into the business or finance industries. Access to a good education can be difficult for many students, especially with how difficult this past year has been, so we hope the help we are able to provide to this group of graduates helps them to reach their goals.”

To apply for a scholarship, the student must:

• Be a 2021 high school graduate
• Reside within 10 miles of a Cornerstone Bank branch or office
• Anticipate being a full-time student at an accredited, degree-granting institution of higher education
• Anticipate studying in a business or financial field
• Demonstrate achievement and high standards in academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement
• Submit an official transcript and GPA from their guidance office

In addition, the student must choose one of the following prompts and submit a one-page typed essay:

1. Are there any challenges you have had to overcome in your high school career?

OR

2. What are your goals for the future, and how will this scholarship assist you in meeting them?

Applications must be submitted or postmarked to Cornerstone Bank by April 5, 2021. Please send all applications to scholarships@cornerstonebank.com, or mail to Cornerstone Bank Scholarship Committee: P.O. Box 370, Southbridge, MA, 01550. Selected recipients will be announced by the week of May 24, 2021. Scholarship funds will be disbursed to the student after successful completion of the first semester and upon presentation of an official copy of the first-semester transcript and second-semester bill.

For more information, and to download the application form, please visit https://cornerstonebank.com/scholarships/.

Alan Whitney joins the team with 25 years of experience

Cornerstone Bank is pleased to announce that Alan Whitney has joined the team in the role of Vice President of Marketing. Whitney comes to Cornerstone with more than 25 years of relevant industry experience.

“Alan is a seasoned veteran with fresh ideas and unbridled enthusiasm,” said Todd Tallman, president of Cornerstone Bank. “We are excited to see how he can help us continue to grow and provide an even better experience to our customers.

Whitney held past positions with Agrium Advanced Technologies and Shemin Landscape Supply. Prior to joining the workforce, he served his country for six years in the United States Navy after graduating with a degree in Business/Marketing from Western New England University. He currently serves as the Chairman for the Ware, Massachusetts Board of Selectman, the governing body of the community in which he resides with his wife, Laurie.

“I look forward to building upon the successes Cornerstone Bank has already achieved. In just my few short weeks here, I have noticed the slogan ‘Built on Trust’ is more than just words. Every member of the team works hard every day to earn and maintain the trust of our customers,” said Whitney. “That’s what sets us apart and one of the main reasons I’m so excited to be a part of the organization.”

Currently holding three different drives at various locations

Cornerstone Bank is giving back to the communities it serves by holding three separate drives to collect items for both people and pets this holiday season. They are hoping others in the community will want to assist in their mission by donating items as well. Below is information about each drive including donations accepted and drop-off information.

• Cops ‘N’ Kids Toy Drive- Southbridge
  • Southbridge Main Office, 253-275 Main Street
  • Branch is still open to the public
  • Now through December 16
  • Looking for new, unwrapped, non-violent toys or gift certificates
  • All toys will be given to Southbridge children through the Southbridge Police Department Cops ‘N’ Kids Program
• Hat & Mitten Tree- Spencer
  • Spencer Main Office, 176 Main Street
  • Branch is closed to the public, donations can be made by calling ahead at 508-885-5313 or ringing doorbell at the rear of the building upon arrival
  • Now through December 18
  • Looking for hats and mittens
  • All donations will be given to the Mary Queen of the Rosary Parish who will distribute to needy individuals
• Pet Supply Drive- Spencer
  • Spencer Fair Plaza Branch, 72 West Main Street, Route 9 West
  • Branch is closed to the public, donations can be made by calling ahead at 508-885-9707
  • Now through December 18
  • Looking for supplies including but not limited to
    • Pet food/treats
    • Pet toys
    • Leashes and collars
    • Beds or cat towers
    • Flea and tick treatment
    • Medical supplies
    • Cleaning supplies
    • Office supplies
    • Gift certificates
  • All donations will be given to the Second Chance Animal Shelter

“We are hoping to make a difference in the lives of people and their pets this holiday season, especially with how difficult 2020 has been for many,” said Todd Tallman, President of Cornerstone Bank.  “It is important for us to give back to the communities that we serve and are proud of the commitment we have made locally to provide help to those who need it. These three drives are just part of our ongoing mission to do our part in making the world a better place”