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SPIRE Awards $10,000 in scholarships; students explain biggest financial concerns

FALCON HEIGHTS, MN (June 13, 2023) — SPIRE Credit Union awarded $10,000 in scholarships to members in both Traditional and Non-Traditional categories. The four winners will each receive $2,500. Nearly 100 applications were reviewed by a team of SPIRE employees, rating applicants on school and community involvement, as well as essays answering the question, “What is your biggest financial concern in the next 3 to 5 years, and how are you preparing for that?”

Danielle Dake said, “When I got accepted to Harvard University, it was one of the most amazing moments in my life. However, it was shadowed by the reality that I may not be able to attend college because of finances.” Danielle is a 2022 graduate of Shakopee High School and will attend Harvard University.

Myranda Griesert explained how she worked with her family to developed future projections, budgets, multifaceted college financing strategies, and a format for making goals-based spending decisions. Myranda is a 2023 graduate of Princeton High School and will attend Augustana University.

Tialy Yang said, “My largest financial concern will be the financial responsibility of my education as I plan to pursue my Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree.” Tialy is from Oak Grove, MN and attends St. Catherine University.

Allie Hoogheem explained how, from the time she opened her first account, finances and saving have been a big part of her life, “Being financially stable is important to me knowing I will have enough in emergencies has been a big priority for me.” Allie is from Champlin, MN and attends Southern New Hampshire University.

Since its inception, the SPIRE Scholarship Program has awarded a total of $63,500 in scholarships to 92 credit union members. “SPIRE’s Scholarship program is a commitment to our core purpose of improving lives, core action of giving back, and supporting future generations of leaders,” said Dan Stoltz, SPIRE President/CEO, “Congratulations to our 2023 winners!”

About SPIRE Credit Union

A full-service financial institution, proudly serving Minnesota and Wisconsin residents since 1934. SPIRE is committed to providing smart products, great rates and excellent service with a goal to improve the financial lives for both personal and business members. SPIRE has 22 branches throughout Minnesota. To learn more about SPIRE, please visit www.myspire.com. SPIRE News | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn