Sedona News – For over 47 years, the University Women of Sedona’s primary purpose has been to provide financial scholarships and support to women in furthering their educational opportunities to an accredited local college or university. Continuing that long tradition, the group will award six scholarships at their upcoming luncheon on Monday, June 3 at Spoke & Wheel restaurant.
Of the six recipients, two students were selected to receive continuing support from the past year. Four new applicants will also be beneficiaries of University Women of Sedona’s support.
The Scholarship Selection Committee had a tough job in narrowing the many applicants to just six winners. “There is so much need and so many worthy candidates.” said Chairperson Debbie Nellis. “Our scholarship awardees have met many challenges and are distinguishing themselves in their chosen field, academically, as individuals and within their families. We are honored to be able to support these women who will soon be contributing to our northern Arizona communities in a variety of ways.”
Those receiving their scholarships at the luncheon will be:
Steph García Hernández, an Arizona native and proud daughter of immigrants. She is currently working as an Early College Coordinator for Mingus Union High School, and attending college as a first-gen student. Her parents’ hard work and resilience has been an enormous influence on her as she works towards a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Human Behavior from Northern Arizona University.
April Beltran is a working mother of three who embarked on a transformative journey with her family, dedicating a decade to community service in India. Upon returning to the United States, and with a passion for public health, she is now enrolled in the nursing program at Yavapai College.
Denise McClellan resides within the Navajo Nation and is also a first generation college student, pursuing her AA degree with a certificate in graphic design. She is the founder of Navajo Expressions Arts and Crafts and a fitness professional. Her career goal is to use a holistic approach to teaching about her culture and fitness, and to be a community partner.
Andrea Blake grew up in Tuba City, on the Navajo reservation, and excels academically. She is a double major in both Astronomy and Physics. She is looking forward to continuing her education at NAU and fulfilling an upcoming internship there.
Caysha Francis is a Cottonwood wife and mother to a one-year-old. She will finish her prerequisite courses at Yavapai College in the Fall and transfer to NAU where she plans to earn her bachelors degree in dental hygiene. Having recovered from a traumatic brain injury from a car accident, she is reminded daily how much she has overcome and looks forward to her new career.
Christy Thompson is an Arizona native, living in Cottonwood for most of her life. She is working toward a bachelor’s degree in business management while also working full-time for Yavapai County. She is a returning student to college and will work and study while a mother and helping with her live-in parents.
To have been considered for these scholarships, applicants must be a permanent resident of Northern Arizona; be a woman re-entering or continuing her education; be registered at one of a list of Northern Arizona colleges (Yavapai College/Verde Valley or Clarkdale campuses, Coconino Community College, Northern Arizona University); show financial need; and, have a G.P.A of 3,0 or better. Students can be either full-time or part-time.
The annual Scholarship Luncheon on June 3 at noon will be held at Spoke & Wheel at Los Abrigados. Special guests will be some past scholarship beneficiaries. For additional information about the University Women of Sedona organization, Membership and scholarship program or to make a donation, contact Debbie Nellis at debbienellis2@gmail.com or 954-803-6992.