Expanding Support for LECOM Healthcare Scholars Program

Five Star Bank (“Five Star” or the “Bank”) today announced an additional $25,000 contribution to the LECOM at Elmira Five Star Bank Healthcare Scholars Program, bringing the Bank's total investment in the program to $50,000.

Established in 2025 through a partnership between Five Star Bank and the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) at Elmira, the scholarship program was created to help reduce financial barriers to students pursuing careers in medicine. This latest investment builds on the early success of the program and reflects Five Star’s continued commitment to expanding educational opportunities throughout Upstate New York.

"The true value of community partnerships is measured by the opportunities they create," said Martin K. Birmingham, President and CEO of Five Star Bank. "Over the past year, we’ve seen this program provide meaningful support to students working towards careers in healthcare. This additional funding allows us to build on that progress and continue investing in individuals who will make important contributions to the communities where we live and work."

The LECOM at Elmira Five Star Bank Healthcare Scholars Program provides scholarships of up to $5,000 annually to qualified applicants from communities throughout Western New York, Central New York, the Finger Lakes and the Southern Tier who are completing their medical education.

"At Five Star, we look for opportunities to invest in initiatives that strengthen our communities over the long term," said Karla J.L. Gadley, Community Development Director of Five Star Bank. "Access to education is a critical part of that effort. We are encouraged by the impact this program has already had and are pleased to continue supporting LECOM students as they pursue their medical degrees. I’m excited to see the positive impact these future healthcare professionals will have on the communities they serve."

Dr. Richard R. Terry, DO, Vice President of Health Sciences and Dean, LECOM at Elmira, added, "This continued support from Five Star Bank helps students focus on their education while easing some of the financial challenges that come with earning a medical degree. We are grateful for the partnership and for the Bank’s ongoing commitment to helping our students achieve their professional goals.”

Those interested in learning more about LECOM at Elmira and its scholarship programs, including the LECOM at Elmira Five Star Bank Healthcare Scholars Program, may visit LECOM.edu.