How Susan Chavez Used the Segal Education Award to Continue Lifelong Learning

By the early 2000s, AmeriCorps had become a cornerstone of community service in the United States — and Susan Chavez was ready to join in. With more than four decades of experience as a social worker, she had long been devoted to helping others through times of crisis. When she discovered AmeriCorps’ partnerships with local organizations and the opportunities provided through the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, she knew it was the right next step. 

What Is the Segal Award? 

The Segal AmeriCorps Education Award is a benefit AmeriCorps members automatically receive after successfully completing a term of service. The award can be used to pay for qualified education expenses or to repay eligible student loans. Qualified expenses include tuition, fees, books, room and board, transportation and other miscellaneous costs. Members have up to seven years to use the funds and can earn the equivalent of up to two full-time awards over their service. 

Members access their award through their account on AmeriCorps.gov. From there, they provide their educational institution with the necessary award information, and AmeriCorps sends the funds directly to the school or lender. 

AmeriCorps offers flexibility in how members serve and earn their awards. A member can earn up to two full-time education awards throughout their service. This can be completed in various combinations — such as two full-time terms, four half-time terms, eight quarter-time terms, or any mix that equals two full-time service commitments. This flexibility allows members to tailor their service experience to fit their personal and professional goals. 

Investing in Her Education 

Over the course of her three years of service, Susan earned two Segal Education Awards, which she later applied toward a master’s degree in library science. The awards made it possible for her to continue her education without taking on additional debt and opened the door to new academic and professional opportunities. For Susan, joining AmeriCorps wasn’t just about the financial support; it was about continuing to grow and challenge herself after decades of serving others. 

Advice for Members 

When asked what advice she’d offer to current AmeriCorps members, Susan’s response was clear: “Be serious about your future goals. Match your goals with the education you need. Stay focused — things can get distracting but keep those educational goals in mind.” 

Her experience shows how joining AmeriCorps and earning the Segal Education Award can be more than a financial benefit; it can be a stepping stone to new opportunities. 

A Culture of Learning at AmeriCorps 

Beyond the Segal Award, Susan says AmeriCorps and its partner sites support lifelong learning in many ways. She said her AmeriCorps service gave her a “reset” in her career, helping her expand her skills, reach new communities and continue making an impact well into her 70s. 

The Segal Education Award continues to open doors for AmeriCorps members like Susan. Her story is a reminder that service and learning go hand in hand, and that it’s never too late to invest in yourself while investing in others.