Washington State Costco Scholarship Fund: UW & Seattle U

Who is eligible for the Costco Scholarship?

The Costco Scholarship Fund provides assistance for high-achieving, high-need students who attend the University of Washington and Seattle University.

The following factors may be considered in the selection process:

• Academic record (curriculum, grades)
• Personal background and community service
• Financial need, as evidenced from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA)
• Part of an underserved group such as youth in foster care, historically underrepresented students, and students who are the first in their family to pursue a college degree.

How do I apply for the Costco Scholarship?

Students are considered for the Costco Scholarship as part of the normal financial aid process at each of these two universities. To learn more about the specific application procedures for the Costco Scholarship Fund, please visit:

• Seattle University Student Financial Services Office | Scholarships
• University of Washington Office of Student Financial Aid | UW Diversity Scholarship for Freshmen

What is the Costco Scholarship Fund?

Since 2000, Costco has joined forces with the University of Washington and Seattle University to create scholarships for highly qualified students who wish to attend these universities. Our goal is to fill the financial gap and offer access for many deserving students to attend college. College Success Foundation administers this scholarship fund on behalf of Costco Wholesale. As a private nonprofit organization, CSF can focus the scholarship fund proceeds.

What is the Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast?

The Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast, created by Jim Sinegal and Jeff Brotman (1942 – 2017), is an annual event to raise money for the Costco Scholarship Fund. The event, hosted by Ron Vachris, is attended by corporate, foundation and community leaders, as well as local philanthropists who support higher education.

Jim Sinegal Co-Founder, Costco Wholesale, and Retired Member, Board of Trustees, Seattle University

Jeff Brotman Co-Founder, Costco Wholesale, and Former Regent, University of Washington

Ron Vachris President & CEO, Costco Wholesale

What is the impetus behind establishing the Costco Scholarship Fund?

Jim and Jeff shared the belief that education is one of the primary factors in creating a successful and fulfilled life. It is a springboard to getting a job, it teaches us about life and it instills in us a sense of accomplishment and a realization of what is possible. Education makes economic security possible, and providing all qualified students access to education benefits everyone. It enriches ensuing discussions that make college so eye-opening and applicable. Such interaction can be more important than textbooks and lectures because it teaches us about humanity, understanding and communication. Education also benefits the business community by helping these students prepare for the jobs they one day will hold at our companies. A confident, trained, well-rounded workforce contributes to the success of everyone.

How will the Costco Scholarship Fund be shared between the two universities?

The University of Washington and Seattle University will share all funds raised equally. 

Who is eligible for the Costco Scholarships?

The Costco Scholarship Fund is designed to help recruit highly qualified students to attend the University of Washington and Seattle University. The scholarship recipients are selected based on the eligibility criteria established by each university.

Are donations to the Costco Scholarship Fund tax-deductible?

Yes, since the Costco Scholarship Fund is administered by the College Success Foundation, a tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization, EIN #91-2036088. All gifts, excluding the value of goods and services received, are fully tax-deductible charitable contributions to the foundation. Please remit donation payments to Costco Scholarship Fund c/o College Success Foundation, 15500 SE 30th Pl, Suite 200 – Bellevue, WA 98007.

Save the Date

27th-Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast
Wednesday, September 30, 2026 • 7 a.m.-9 a.m.
Seattle Convention Center | Summit • Seattle, WA

Join us as we celebrate our Costco scholars and alumni and raise critical funds for deserving students to access and attend college. Your continued support will help today’s young people achieve their dreams of higher education to become the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

The Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast is held the day after Supplier Day, allowing guests to attend both events and support the Costco Scholarship Fund. There is a minimum donation of $1,500 per seat to attend the Scholarship Fund Breakfast. There are also several event sponsorship options, starting at $15,000 and include a sponsor benefit of a minimum of three (3) seats to Supplier Day.

Registration and information about sponsorship packages will be available in spring 2026.

Interested in contributing to the Costco Scholarship Fund?

Donate today

Questions? Please contact info@costcoscholarshipfund.org

2025

The 26th Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast raised more than $7.1M, which brings our total to more than $96.7M since 2000. The remarkable stories heard from Costco scholars and alumni are a testament to the importance of this scholarship.Their academic pursuits would not be possible without the generosity and overwhelming support of Costco suppliers year after year, including this year’s supplier honoree, Michael Fux (The Michael Fux Foundation and Imaginarium & Co, Inc.) who was recognized for his commitment to the educational success of Costco scholars. We are tremendously grateful to our donors for their generous contributions.

2024

This year marked 25 years of the Costco Scholarship Fund! Costco President and CEO Ron Vachris announced a new fundraising record $7.4M raised and almost $90M since inception. We heard from past Costco scholar and emcee Analisa Chavez, SU; as well as featured scholars and alumni, Dionne Williams, UW, Victoria Mulugeta, UW, Dylan Munn, SU, and Diego Gael Gonzalez, SU; who continue to inspire us through the lasting change and impact they are making in their communities. The Costco Scholarship Fund has provided opportunities and enriched the lives of more than 2,600 students who have been awarded this scholarship. We thank our donors for their generosity and continued support of this community of scholars.

2023

At the 24th Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast, a record $5,988,679 was raised. From its inception, the program has raised more than $80 million to further the education of over 2,300 scholars both past and present. The scholars who were recognized at this year’s breakfast included emcee Narissa Tsuboi, SU; current scholars Marcial Romero Gomez, UW, and Justus Curry, SU; as well as past scholars Carlos Estrada Alamo, UW; Veratta Pegram-Floyd, SU, and Briana Carrillo, UW. Their stories showcased the enormous impact of the scholarship fund.

2022

At the 23rd Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast, Susan Brotman and Jim Sinegal announced a new fundraising record of $5.6 million raised and over $76 million since inception. The program recognized scholars Mahamed Kassim, UW and Sharol Fernandez-Herndandez, SU and their inspiring stories as well as updates from Alumni Colina Bruce and Tony Nabors as well as emcee Chastity Groves. Each story celebrated the achievements of the remarkable students and graduates who benefit from this effort. Learn more

2021

2020

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 21st Annual Costco Scholarship Fund event went virtual. Emcee Noe Merfeld, a Costco Scholar Alumna, shared how the power of education transforms lives and has inspired others in her family to pursue higher education. Noe was able to attend the University of Washington with the support of the Costco Scholarship Fund. Costco CEO Craig Jelinek also acknowledged donors for helping to raise more than $4 million for deserving students.

2019

This year marked the 20th Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast, and the program celebrated the occasion in memorable style. Costco CEO Craig Jelinek gratefully acknowledged donors for helping to raise more than $5 million this year and more than $55 million since the inception of the program. Brian King, Vice President for U.S. Customer Development at Colgate-Palmolive, offered congratulations on behalf of his company which has contributed $460,000 to the program since 2000.

2018

Emcee Evan Wirkkala, an alumnus of University of Washington and Seattle University, announced that CSF raised $4.4 million.

2017

Costco CEO Craig Jelinek announced that the 2017 breakfast raised over $5 million including a special gift of $1 million from Warren Lieb. Since 2000, over $52 million has been raised for over 1,600 scholarships.

2016

The 17th Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast raised more than $4 million for deserving students. Washington Governor Jay Inslee appeared by video to applaud the fund for giving scholars the chance to “have a real shot at life.” He also recognized Costco supplier and supporter Georgia-Pacific for its contribution of more than $650,000 since 2002 and presented Kathy Walters and Manny Rodriguez a plaque for Georgia-Pacific’s outstanding commitment to students.

2015

At the 16th Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast, a record number of attendees – over 1,200 – helped raise the largest amount to date: $3.7 million. It was a huge success!

2014

The 15th Annual Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast was one of breaking records. Not only was it the largest of its kind, but it also raised the largest amount: $3.6 million.

2013

Keynote speaker Jeri Brunoe, founder of Brunoe Training and Consulting, is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation in Oregon. Brunoe Training and Consulting provides training for businesses, tribes, nations, tribal organizations and those organizations which serve Native American, Alaska Native and other Indigenous populations.

The 2013 Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast raised more than $3.3 million, setting an all-time record! During its 14 years, the event has helped more than 1,100 students overcome financial constraints to attend the University of Washington and Seattle University.

2012

Keynote speaker D.J. Eagle Bear Vanas, is the author of the best-selling book “The Tiny Warrior” and he is an enrolled member of the Ottawa Tribe and a former U.S. Air Force officer.   Over $3.1 million was raised with almost 1000 guests in attendance.

2011

The keynote speaker was Vernice Armour. Vernice became the first African American female combat pilot in the U.S. She believes that women and men from all walks of life have the potential to achieve the highest levels of success with the right flight plan.

2010

The 2010 Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast featured a conversation with Jim Sinegal, Jeff Brotman, Dr. Chris Holder, and Chalia Stallings-Alailima moderated by Stephen Sundborg, S.J., President of Seattle University. They discussed the history, impact, and future of the Costco Scholarship Fund.

2009

Four former scholarship recipients were the keynote speakers. The recipients shared how the award made it possible to pursue their dreams by removing the financial barriers of a college education.

2008

Ms. Erin Gruwell was the keynote speaker. In the fall of 1994, as an idealistic first-year teacher, Erin took on the challenge of a class of “unteachable, at-risk” students at a California high school. Fostering an educational philosophy that valued and promoted diversity, she encouraged students to rethink rigid beliefs about themselves and others, to reconsider daily decisions, and re-chart their futures. With Erin’s steadfast support, her students shattered stereotypes to become critical thinkers, aspiring college students, and citizens for change. Dubbing themselves the “Freedom Writers,” they transformed their lives and even published a book. Their story inspired the motion picture “Freedom Writers.”

2007

Dr. Barbara Ross-Lee was the keynote speaker. Dr. Ross-Lee is the first African-American woman to be appointed dean of a U.S. medical school, Ohio University. She currently serves as Vice President for Health Sciences and Medical Affairs at the New York Institute of Technology.

2006

Justice Alan C. Page was the keynote speaker. The honorable Justice Page was Minnesota’s first African-American Supreme Court Justice and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. While playing professional football, he earned his law degree from the University of Minnesota. He was a compelling speaker on creating education opportunities.

2005

Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch was the keynote speaker. Consuelo became the highest-ranking Hispanic woman in the Combat Support Field of the U.S. Army. In 1996, she retired from the military and dedicated her time to Education Achievement Services, Inc. (EAS) to realize her personal dream and mission of preparing tomorrow’s leaders today

2004

Sampson Davis, M.D., George Jenkins, D.D.S., and Rameck Hunt, M.D. were the keynote speakers. The doctors speak frequently to schools and youth groups in an effort to encourage youth to resist drugs and crime and reach for their dreams no matter how distant they may seem. They established The Three Doctors Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps inner-city youth through scholarships, after-school programs, mentoring, and health.

2003

Dr. M. Joycelyn Elders was the keynote speaker. Dr. Elders was the first African-American woman to hold the post of Surgeon General of the United States. She has been listed in “Distinguished Women in America” and has been honored with numerous awards including the National Governors Association Distinguished Service Award.

2002

Edward James Olmos was the keynote speaker. Edward has gained acclaim on stage, on television and on the big screen. A former ambassador for UNICEF, he gives more than 100 speeches a year. He stresses the importance of education citing the inspiration of his parents, who left school without completing their high school education but returned later to get their diplomas as adults.

2001

Sidney Poitier was the keynote speaker. The first African-American to receive the Academy Award for Best Actor, Mr. Poitier broke through the industry’s long-standing color barrier to become one of the country’s most respected performers. In addition to his Oscar, Mr. Poitier has won two Golden Globes, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, an NAACP Image Award and the Screen Actors Guild’s Life Achievement Award, among others.

2000

Earvin “Magic” Johnson was the keynote speaker. Magic Johnson is best known for his legendary basketball career, but today he directs his efforts towards another lasting legacy: philanthropy.

21^st-Annual Costco Supplier Day

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 | 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Meydenbauer Center | Bellevue, WA

Costco Supplier Day is an invite-only event. Due to the popularity of this event, Costco prioritizes which suppliers are invited, gearing towards new suppliers, smaller suppliers or those who might benefit from hearing Costco’s message.

Note to Suppliers: All Costco Supplier Day invitations are overseen by the Costco Merchandising Team. Please refer to your Costco buyer for more information regarding Supplier Day invitations.

Learn more about Costco Supplier Day.

What is Supplier Day?

Every year Costco hosts Supplier Day, an event that builds and fosters the relationships with its suppliers. As a retailer, Costco strives to maintain an excellent relationship with suppliers—a commitment that is reflected in the company’s mission statement. This day is just one more way it can meet that endeavor.

Due to the popularity of this event, Costco prioritizes which suppliers are invited, gearing towards new suppliers, smaller suppliers or those who might benefit from hearing Costco’s message.

What Happens on Supplier Day?

Costco Supplier Day is an opportunity for suppliers to hear a company overview from company executives. Breakfast and lunch are provided, with the program ending at lunch.

Suppliers will learn more about Costco, its outlook on the future and growth opportunities pertaining to specific regions, demographics and departments. Costco’s Merchandising Team will present on the past year’s merchandising successes and what Costco seeks in its merchandise for the upcoming year.

Costco buyers have the option of attending lunch, though there will be no assigned seating. Suppliers are encouraged to reach out to their Costco buyers in advance if they would like to meet during this time.

There are no formal presentation or product display opportunities for suppliers.

Quick Links

• Costco Supplier Day
• Costco Supplier Day FAQ
• Costco Scholarship Breakfast
• Costco Scholarship Breakfast Sponsorship Opportunities
• Hotels & Accommodations

Event services for Costco Supplier Day and the Costco Scholarship Fund Breakfast are provided by the College Success Foundation on behalf of Costco Wholesale.