Fitzsimons Credit Union believes that education has the power to transform communities and is pleased to announce the 2022 recipients of the Sandra B. Neves Scholarship. Established by the board of directors and supported by the credit union, the scholarship is named in honor of former CEO, Sandra Neves, and was founded after her retirement in 2017. Ms. Neves has always been passionate about higher education asserting that “lifelong learning is essential to success and happiness, combined with integrity, upstanding character and continuous personal and spiritual development, education is your key to a joyful life.”
Fitzsimons’ current President & CEO, Robert M. Fryberger Jr., states “We are honored to announce the recipients of this scholarship and continue with our commitment of supporting education of our future leaders.”
This year’s scholarship recipients were chosen based upon academic achievement, career aspirations, community service, extracurricular participation, and financial need. They received varying amounts, totaling $5,100 in awarded scholarships. The awardees are, in no particular order:
Ciara Andrew is pursuing a degree in Business Administration at the University of Alabama, with the goal of open her own hair salon. She was student of the year in 2018-2019 at Rangeview Highschool. As her teacher describes her “She is an incredible student and leader who is intrinsically motivated to achieve her goals.”
Francesco Contreras will be a freshman at Arizona State University and is pursuing a Major in Political Science, and a Minor in Studio Art. He was a winner of the Smoky Hill High School Award for Exceptional Quality and helped raise funds for Colorado Make-A-Wish. His goal is planning to earn a law degree, then become either a corporate lawyer for Nike, or a criminal defense lawyer
Jenise Ramos is pursuing a degree in Animal Science, with a minor in Military Science at Colorado State University. 2020 was a very challenging year for her; however, she has overcome numerous obstacles to get where she is now and strives to continue to be a great student. As one of her references describe her “She is indeed an outstanding individual in both her academic and personal pursuits”.
Maame Fordwuo will be a freshman at Grand Canyon University and is pursuing a degree in Forensic Science. She is a hardworking student who spends her time working, studying, and volunteering at various organizations such as Food Bank of the Rockies, Special Olympics, Focus Points: Family Resource Center, among others.
Matthew Griewahn will be attending the University of North Dakota and is pursuing a Major in Commercial Aviation. He was involved in many extracurricular, volunteer, and community service activities during high school. For example, he was a cellist in the school orchestra and a pianist for the school.