Earlier this year, The Neighbors Capital Area Foundation announced its newest initiative, the Neighbors Way Tuition Assistance Award. Neighbors is proud to announce nine winners.
Schools participating in the Neighbors Mascot Checking Program were invited to nominate one graduating senior to receive the award. Schools nominated students for the award based on their character and commitment to living the “Neighbors Way.” Nominated students exemplified the credit union’s core values including: Integrity, Respect, Trust, Stability, Community Involvement, Honesty, Empathy, Ethical Behavior and Fairness.
Ashley Hanna of Live Oak High School was the grand prize recipient. Hanna will receive $5,000 to attend the university of her choice. Neighbors selected Hanna for her leadership and outstanding dedication to giving back to the community. Giving back to the community is a cornerstone value of Neighbors and truly represents the “Neighbors Way.” Hanna plans to attend LSU’s Roger Hadfield Ogden Honors College and pursue a career as a medical surgeon.
“I am so very thankful for this generosity,” Hanna said. “I plan to make the most of this donation by continuing to do well in school.”
Lauren Meades of Walker High School received the second highest award amount of $3,000. She plans to attend Southeastern University and major in nursing.
The remaining seven recipients will be awarded $1,000 and include:
Baker High School: Kelsey Gautier
- Central High School: Raven Alexander
- Denham Springs High School: Cameron Hamby
- McKinley High School: Derrika Dorsey
- Port Allen High School: Alyssa Williams
- Southern University Lab School: Carrington Hall
- Woodlawn High School: Xavier Roberson
Funds for the program have been raised through two major avenues including Neighbors’ employee payroll donation program and the Foundation’s annual fundraiser, Clays For A Cause. In 2018, Neighbors FCU employees pledged to donate $14,549. In March, the Foundation held its 5th annual fundraiser, Clays for a Cause. The annual sporting clay tournament generated a total of $14,464 in net proceeds. These funds, in addition to several smaller gifts, will allow the Foundation to grant up to $30,000 to students graduating in 2019.
“We cannot be more excited for this tremendous impact on the lives of local students,” Neighbors President and CEO Steve Webb said. “As the cost of higher education continues to rise, funds like these become increasingly important to provide an opportunity to students who might not have otherwise had the means to attend college.”
