El Paso, TX (November 25, 2025) |
Raiz Federal Credit Union awarded $67,500 in scholarships and grants to students, educators, and nonprofits during its November 15, 2025 awards ceremony at Region 19 Head Start. The event celebrated student achievements, innovative teachers, and community organizations supporting families, emphasizing our deep gratitude for their ongoing contributions to our community.
Founded in El Paso in 1936 as Teachers Federal Credit Union by seven educators, Raiz continues to honor its roots by investing in education, helping students, supporting teachers, and fostering community growth, believing education transforms families and communities.
“Investing in education is more than just providing funding," Raiz President & CEO Max Villaronga said. "It's about empowering individuals and creating a brighter future for our entire community. Together, we are planting the seeds for transformative change that will benefit generations to come.”
Raiz congratulates the winners of the 2025 scholarships and grants for their dedication.
$1,000 Raiz Community Scholarship:
- Victoria Mendoza
- Alondra Ramirez
- Kathryn Terrazas
- Sofia Fournier
- Jacquelin Gutierrez
- Soraya Vasquez
- Isaiah Casillas
- Arturo Alvarez
- Alec Enriquez
- Dominik Perkins
$5,000 Raizing Leaders Scholarship — University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)
These scholarships help students build confidence and leadership skills that will shape our border region for generations to come.
- College of Education: Carolina Sotelo Balcazar
- Woody L. Hunt College of Business: Cristina Gardea
“I have the pleasure of helping to present the award each year and witness firsthand the impact that this has on our students and their families,” said Dr. Clifton S. Tanabe, Dean of the College of Education at the University of Texas at El Paso. “This recognition elevates their accomplishments. When we impact the lives of our students, we are in turn impacting the difference that they are able to make in our community.”
$5,000 Michael Sandoval STEM Memorial Scholarship
- Jorge Olivas Salazar
$3,500 Raiz Up Professional Development Grant
Raiz Up Professional Development Grants support classroom innovation, skill building, and provide opportunities for educators to introduce new learning experiences. Each year, one grant is available for teachers in every local school district.
- Fabens ISD: Santiago Chavez
- Canutillo ISD: Isaac Oliva
- Clint ISD: Angela Villaseñor
- Socorro ISD: Christopher Romero
- El Paso ISD: Sarah Mayne
This year, five districts received grants. Raiz didn't get applications from others this time, the credit union is eager to support teachers from all districts in the next round, so more classrooms and students benefit. Applications for the next cycle are expected in late Summer 2026.
$25,000 Together We Raiz Grant
The Together We Raiz Community Grant helps create healthier futures for children and families throughout the Paso del Norte region.
- El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation
“The [Together We Raiz] grant will fund Project KETO, giving children with drug-resistant epilepsy access to ketogenic therapy,” said an El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation representative. “By covering medically necessary formula, caregiver education, and staff training, Raiz’s support translates into improved seizure control, nutritional stability, and a better quality of life for families who otherwise could not afford this treatment.”
Raiz remains committed to supporting educational and community success through scholarship funding, educator development, and nonprofit partnerships that help families thrive.
To learn more, visit raiz.us/services/