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Susie Johnston Airfoil Public Relations 248-304-1449

Partnered with Credit Union Student Choice, Michigan First Credit Union is ready to support families, colleges and universities in case of Federal budget disruptions

Online PR News – 01-August-2011 –LATHRUP VILLAGE, Mich.,– In the face of heated debt-ceiling and deficit negotiations in Washington, the nearly 200 credit unions partnered with Credit Union Student Choice have underscored their commitment to students, families, and colleges by collectively pledging $1 billion to higher education financing solutions. As part of this initiative, Michigan First Credit Union has pledged $5 million to support higher education with its recently launched Student Choice lending program.

According to Jon Jeffreys, President of Credit Union Student Choice, this historic pledge comes at a critically important time for higher education. While students busily prepare for Fall semester classes and finalize their funding needs, Congress is engaged in fierce negotiations over the Federal budget—an impasse that could significantly impact the flow of educational funds, such as vital Pell Grants, to students, colleges, and universities.

“Our credit union partners have stated loud and clear that they support students and families, and in turn, the colleges and universities that are the bedrock of many communities,” said Jeffreys. “While it’s imperative that students first maximize scholarships, grants, and Federal Stafford loans, this pledge reaffirms our credit union partners’ commitment to providing fair-value private student lending solutions. This is especially important in light of the ongoing budget negotiations, which could potentially result in delayed or reduced funding of key programs.”

With education costs continuing to rise, millions of students rely on loans to pay for college. Jeffreys points out that while Federal student loans provide the best financing option, many students also rely on private student loans to fill funding gaps. The nationwide Student Choice network enables its 200 credit union partners to provide school‐certified private education loans to students in need of additional financing options, while also providing key information to help families make responsible decisions on the best ways to pay for college.

“Higher education is the key to a bright future for individuals in our community and is critical to the future our country,” said Michael Poulos, president and CEO of Michigan First. “Michigan First is pleased to offer this new Student Choice student lending program and join with other credit unions nationwide to support this amazing collaborative pledge, enabling us to make a real difference in the lives of our members and our community.”

While the pledge refers mainly to the private student lending solution, Jeffreys adds that many credit unions can also serve as a resource for colleges and universities that may need financial contingency plans in case of any disruption of funds caused by ongoing Federal budget negotiations.

“Colleges and universities are keeping a close eye on budget negotiations, as that could potentially have a direct impact on Federal funding that is vital for higher education programs,” said Jeffreys. “While some believe the likelihood of a major disruption is low, it’s important to note that credit unions stand ready to assist with contingency plans. The credit union commitment to America’s families and their education aspirations remains unchanged regardless of what happens in Washington, DC.”