MONTEBELLO, Calif., June 20, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Camino Federal Credit Union has awarded four scholarships of $500 each to an outstanding student at each of the four high schools in the Montebello Unified School District.
"One of our scholarship winners will be the first in her family to attend college," said Robert Chaffino, CFCU's president/CEO. "It's students like her that inspire and make us proud."
The credit union formerly known as Montebello Schools FCU has served the district since 1941. "We changed our name to Camino Federal Credit Union because many potential members thought only MUSD employees could join," said Chaffino. "Our new name is more inclusive, and our scholarship program is a continuation of our commitment to serving the education community."
The winners of Camino's first scholarship competition are:
Lucy Kourkchian, Montebello High School
Lucy is involved in several scholastic organizations, volunteers at local hospitals and still manages to maintain a 4.16 GPA. Her math teacher is impressed by her character and willingness to work hard until she understands each lesson. Other teachers cite not only her academic work but also her commitment to community service. She plans to attend the University of California - Irvine, UCLA or California State University Los Angeles.
Samantha Gallaway, Schurr High School
Samantha earned a 3.57 GPA and earned varsity letters in volleyball, softball and soccer. She was also active in the Renaissance Club, a campus group that mentored other students. Her college counselor describes her as "a well-rounded and mature person who challenges herself." She wants to first attend Mount St. Mary's College in Los Angeles, then apply to the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine.
Jasmine Guevara, Vail High School
Jasmine wants to major in English at Rio Hondo College and Cal State Long Beach, and volunteers with the Key Club. Her counselor says she has "blossomed into a young woman of strength and direction." Jasmine does not take things or people for granted and is grateful for what she receives. Her goal is to be an elementary school teacher.
Miriam Hernandez, Bell Gardens High School
Miriam graduated 7th in a class of 700 and is on the school's honor roll. She will be the first in her family to attend college, and is described by her teachers as "reliable and very responsible." Miriam has participated in many school organizations, played volleyball and basketball, and was a volunteer tutor. She plans to attend a California State University campus close to home and study psychology or education.
Camino Federal Credit Union funds the scholarship program and administers the nomination process. It was assisted in developing and promoting the scholarship program by Aubrey & Associates, a marketing, advertising and public relations agency that has worked with credit unions nationwide for more than 25 years.
The Camino Federal Credit Union logo is available at http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=2676
(c)Aubreyco.com CFC-613
(photos of award winners available upon request)