For many residents living in public and affordable housing, the cost of higher education can feel out of reach. HAI Group’s Resident Scholarship Program was created to help change that by supporting residents who are working toward their educational goals and investing in their futures.Through financial assistance and national recognition, the program helps students pursue college, technical training, and other postsecondary education opportunities that can lead to long-term stability and career growth.
Since its inception, the Resident Scholarship Program has awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to more than 500 students nationwide. What began as a way to give back to resident communities has grown into a national program that reflects HAI Group’s commitment to strengthening affordable housing and the people who call it home.
The program is open to residents of housing authorities and affordable housing properties insured by an HAI Group company. Scholarships are awarded first to eligible prior recipients who reapply, and remaining scholarships are then awarded to new applicants through a random drawing, in accordance with the program’s official rules.
Scholarship funds can be used to help cover tuition, books, fees, and other education-related expenses. From HAI Group’s perspective, the program is designed to help reduce financial barriers, allowing students to stay enrolled and continue progressing with their education. Manager of Enterprise Support Heather Cibula has overseen the scholarship program for several years and has seen that impact firsthand.
“For the past four years, managing the Resident Scholarship Program has been an incredibly gratifying experience," Cibula said. "Although I’ve never met the recipients in person, our ongoing communication has allowed me to feel connected to their journeys. Working with some students throughout all four years of their eligibility, their appreciation for the opportunity has been both clear and deeply rewarding. As a parent of a daughter who recently graduated from college, this work truly hits home, and I see firsthand how invaluable this program is for students who need additional financial support to pursue their education and plan for the future.”
Year in college: Senior
Major: Nursing
“As a single mother pursuing a nursing career, I’ve faced challenges that required strength, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. This award eases the financial weight of my education and allows me to remain focused on my calling to serve others through nursing. It represents hope, encouragement, and confirmation that perseverance, faith, and hard work do not go unnoticed."
Year in college: Senior
Major: Marketing
"I'm incredibly grateful for this scholarship, especially as I enter my senior year of college, my most important and demanding year yet. This support is lifting a major financial burden and allowing me to focus fully on my studies, growth, and preparing for what's next. [HAI Group's] generosity is not just helping me finish strong, but it's solidifying the foundation for my future.”
Year in college: Junior
Major: Social Work
“Receiving the HAI Group Resident Scholarship has meant so much to me. It reduced financial stress and allowed me to focus on my education instead of worrying about how to pay for school. Knowing there was support behind me showed me that my goals were achievable and worth pursuing.
The scholarship helped cover essential expenses such as tuition and books, allowing me to complete my associate’s degree in psychology without interruption. Since then, I have begun working as a P.R.S.S. at Hope Community Services Urgent Recovery Center and am pursuing licensure as a behavioral case manager. I am also starting my bachelor’s degree in social work at East Central University, with plans to continue on to earn my master’s degree.
I have received the scholarship for two years, going on three, and the continued support has played a key role in helping me reach goals I once thought were unattainable. I am deeply grateful to be part of the HAI Group scholarship community, and for the lasting impact this program has had on my educational journey.”
In 2026, HAI Group will award 20 scholarships valued at $6,000 each. Applications open February 11.
Enrollment
Is or will be enrolled in an accredited or licensed technical school, or an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the United States for the fall 2026 semester.
Residency
Resides in a housing authority or affordable housing property insured by an HAI Group company, or holds a housing choice voucher administered by a participating housing authority.
Citizenship
Is a United States citizen or a permanent resident.
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