New York Life today recognized 20 recipients of its 2026 Golden Futures Scholarship, awarding $10,000 and $20,000 scholarships to rising college students from across the United States while expanding the program to include professional development, career exploration and networking opportunities with New York Life employees.
The Golden Futures Scholarship helps students prepare for higher education and future careers by combining scholarship support with financial education and career exploration. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated commitment to financial literacy and future aspirations.
The company celebrated this year’s scholarship recipients during a recognition event at its New York City Home Office, where students and members of their families met New York Life employees, participated in career exploration activities, received professional headshots and were honored during an awards ceremony. The event concluded with a celebration at Yankee Stadium, recognizing students’ accomplishments while creating opportunities to build relationships with New York Life employees, Managing Partners and General Office representatives from across the country.
“At New York Life, we believe financial confidence begins with education,” said Lisa Thomsen, head of Digital Marketing and Sponsorships at New York Life. “A scholarship provides critical support, but financial knowledge, meaningful relationships and exposure to new career possibilities are what truly shape a student’s future. That’s why Golden Futures pairs a scholarship with all three.”
The Golden Futures program also includes the Golden Futures Awards, which celebrate children ages 5 through 16 who demonstrate passion and potential across a variety of interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Golden Futures Scholarship? New York Life awards Golden Futures Scholarships of $10,000 or $20,000 to help recipients cover higher education expenses.
How many students received Golden Futures scholarships in 2026? New York Life recognized 20 students from 15 states as 2026 Golden Futures Scholarship recipients.
Who is eligible for the Golden Futures Scholarship? Rising college students are selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated commitment to financial literacy and future aspirations.
What does the Golden Futures Scholarship program include besides funding? Recipients complete financial education modules on budgeting, saving and credit, then take part in a recognition event with career exploration, networking and professional development at New York Life’s Home Office.
Is there a Golden Futures program for younger children? Yes. The Golden Futures Awards celebrate children ages 5 through 16 who demonstrate passion and potential across a variety of interests.
To learn more about the Golden Futures Awards and Scholarships, visit www.newyorklife.com/golden-futures.
ABOUT NEW YORK LIFE
New York Life Insurance Company (www.newyorklife.com), a Fortune 100 company founded in 1845, is the largest1 mutual life insurance company in the United States and one of the largest life insurers in the world. Headquartered in New York City, New York Life’s family of companies offers life insurance, disability income insurance, retirement income, investments, and long-term care insurance. New York Life has the highest financial strength ratings currently awarded to any U.S. life insurer from all four of the major credit rating agencies.2
1 Based on revenue as reported by “Fortune 500 ranked within Industries, Insurance: Life, Health (Mutual),” Fortune magazine, 6/3/2026. For methodology, please see https://fortune.com/ranking/fortune500/#methodology.
2 Individual independent rating agency commentary as of 10/28/2025: A.M. Best (A++), Fitch (AAA), Moody’s Investors Service (Aa1), Standard & Poor’s (AA+).
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260811709249/en/
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