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Bay Commitment

Bay Commitment Scholarship Program

In 2008, a group of visionaries and philanthropists passionate about education got together to find a way to build our community’s education attainment levels. Bay Commitment Scholarship is growing our community by degrees, but it’s also an important support program for students and families navigating new territory.

Each year, Bay Area Community Foundation awards $2,000 each to up to 100 first-generation college students in Bay County pursuing a degree or certificate at either Saginaw Valley State University or Delta College. A first-generation college student is one whose parent(s) they live with do not hold bachelor’s degrees.          

Who is Eligible for the Bay Commitment Scholarship?

Students interested in the Bay Commitment Scholarship must meet the following criteria:

  • High school senior in a Bay County school
  • Neither parent(s) (that you live with) has a bachelor’s degree
  • Plans to attend Delta College or Saginaw Valley State University
Apply for a Bay Commitment Scholarship

Students are also eligible to apply for additional Bay Area Community Foundation scholarships by completing our annual scholarship application. To learn more about these additional scholarship opportunities, visit our BACF Scholarship Program page.

We are so grateful to the following individuals and organizations who have helped us make education a priority in our community through the Bay Commitment Scholarship Program.

Bay Commitment Visionaries: Krantz Family Fund, Bay Commitment Fund, Charles and Morrow Ford Bay Commitment Fund, Joseph F. and Marjory A. Kerr Scholarship, Labadie Auto Company Bay Commitment Fund, Warren F. and Ruth P. Mandley Memorial Education Fund, Ronald K. and Greta A. McGillivray Scholarship Fund, Paul Revard and Frances Santoro Bay Commitment Fund, Carolyn Wierda Bay Commitment Fund, Stephen and Dena Wirt Scholarship Fund.

Bay Commitment Legacies and Bequests: Newell and Elizabeth Eddy Bay Commitment Scholarship Fund, Educational Gift & Academic Awareness Commemorative Fund, Phil & Whitey Jackson Memorial Scholarship Fund, Virginia C. Johnston Scholarship Fund, Helen Mackey Memorial Fund, Donald C. Nichols Fund, John C. and Marion R. Noell Educational Fund, Rosemary Pope Fund, Irene Mary Rzepa Scholarship Fund.

“To and Through” College Supporters: Bay Commitment College Access Network Endowment Fund, Newell and Elizabeth Eddy College Access Fund, Charles Ford College Access Endowment Fund, Michigan College Access Network, Nickless Family Charitable Foundation, Vision for Education.

Need assistance? We’re here to answer your scholarship and application questions.
989.893.4438

Aaron Faist - Program Officer

I oversee our scholarship programs, Youth Advisory Committee, Men’s Philanthropy Group, and Dow Community Gives grant program.

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Nicole Horn

989.893.4438 or email below 

Donor Relations and Communications Officer

At BACF, I am fortunate to contribute to our mission in meaningful and impactful ways. As your main contact for donor-advised funds, I help ensure that each donor’s unique passions are brought to life through their giving—whether this be through designated or agency funds. It is an honor to connect with generous community members, and I am always available to discuss how you can create a lasting impact in our community.  

In addition, I oversee all of BACF’s communications, bringing ideas to life through engaging stories and visuals. While upholding our brand identity, I strive to highlight the remarkable individuals in our community and the collaborative efforts that make Bay and Arenac counties exceptional places to live, work, and thrive.

As a lifelong Bay County resident, I am deeply connected to our people and community. I cherish the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and am committed to enhancing the quality of life for everyone in Bay and Arenac counties, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.

I Can Help You With:

  • Donor Advised Funds
  • Agency & Designated Funds
  • Business Sponsorships
  • Give Local Bay and BACF Events
  • BACF Website
  • BACF Donor Portal

Things I Do In My Free Time: You’ll often find me at a local coffee shop in Downtown Bay City and frequenting the area’s local arts and music scene. I also love hiking and exploring parks both in our area and throughout northern Michigan.

Madi Syring

989.893.4438 or email below 

Program Officer

I am proud to serve my community through my role at BACF. As a Program Officer, I collaborate with nonprofit, government, church, and school partners in Bay and Arenac counties to navigate our grant opportunities and find the right funding alignment. From project conception to post-award, I am your main contact for all things grants. Connecting organizations and donors who share the same vision and passion is at the heart of my work.

I am dedicated to supporting the organizations that work tirelessly to improve our community. Additionally, I provide capacity-building opportunities by hosting educational workshops, managing Catchafire—a volunteer platform connecting organizations with professional services at no cost—and offering technical assistance and resources to build strength in our nonprofit community.
 

I Can Help You With:

  • Navigating the Competitive Grant Process
  • Finding Funding Alignment
  • Building Organizational Capacity
  • Technical Assistance

Things I Do In My Free Time: Outside of work, you might catch me on the trail with my dog! I love backpacking, hiking, hunting, and kayaking all over Michigan. I’m also an avid reader, so you might find me at a local library or bookshop. 

Rachael Rosas

989.893.4438 or email below

Administrative Officer

As the Administrative Officer at BACF, my responsibilities include maintaining our comprehensive database, accurately documenting gifts, and collaborating with building vendors to maintain the historic Pere Marquette Depot.

I am committed to establishing well-documented processes that contribute to the ongoing success of BACF. My deep appreciation for the Pere Marquette Depot drives me to preserve this historic landmark as a source of price for our community, ensuring its legacy for future generations. 

I Can Help You With:

  • Making a Gift to One of Our Many Funds
  • Updating Your Contact Information
  • Identifying the Most Helpful Staff Member or Resource
  • Answering General Questions about BACF
  • Providing Information About the Pere Marquette Depot and 1904 Room Event Space

Things I Do In My Free Time: I enjoy immersing myself in flower gardening and various art projects. I love spending time in nature and attending community events, which help me stay connected and get inspired. 

Frances Moore

989.893.4438 or email below 

Program and Finance Associate

As the Program and Finance Associate at BACF, I support our Scholarship Program and partner with the Director of Finance on financial reporting. I also assist in the management of the Pere Marquette Depot and the 1904 Room event space.

I am honored to play a role in helping individuals achieve their dreams and reach their full potential. I am passionate about making a positive impact and am always ready to lend a helping hand to ensure the success of our programs and the betterment of our community. 

I Can Help You With:

  • Scholarship Applications and Award Process
  • Information about the Pere Marquette Depot and 1904 Room Event Space
  • Coordination with Scholarship Committees
  • General Support for BACF Programs and Initiatives

Things I Do In My Free Time: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring Michigan’s beautiful landscapes, camping under the stars, and bike riding through scenic trails.