Meet The 2021 Sandra B. Neves Scholarship Recipients

Fitzsimons Credit Union believes that education has the power to transform communities and is pleased to announce the 2021 recipients of the Sandra B. Neves Scholarship.  Established by the board of directors and supported by the credit union, the scholarship is named in honor of former CEO, Sandra Neves, and was founded after her retirement in 2017.  Ms. Neves has always been passionate about higher education asserting that “lifelong learning is essential to success and happiness, combined with integrity, upstanding character and continuous personal and spiritual development, education is your key to a joyful life.”

Fitzsimons’ current President & CEO, Robert M. Fryberger Jr., states “We are honored to announce the recipients of this scholarship and continue with our commitment of supporting the education of our future leaders.”

This year’s scholarship recipients were chosen based on academic achievement, career aspirations, community service, extracurricular participation, and financial need. Each recipient received $1,250, totaling $5,000 in awarded scholarships.  The awardees are, in no particular order:

Jazmyn Johnson is pursuing a degree in event and meeting management, with a minor in entrepreneurship at Denver’s Metropolitan State University. She is one step closer to achieving her goal of having her own successful catering business. 2020 was a very challenging year for her, however, she has overcome numerous obstacles to get where she is now and strives to continue to be a great mom and student.

Matthew Johnson will be a freshman at Grand Canyon University and is pursuing a career in accounting. He has received multiple honors including the Academic Award in the Field of Business and Highest Academic Honors. As his teacher describes him, “he is a persistent and passionate learner. His work ethic, intelligence, creativity, and integrity have developed out of challenges and struggles. “

Ben Torres is entering his senior year at the University of Colorado and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in economics. He is a hardworking student, who spends his time working, studying, and volunteering at various organizations such as Camp Barnabas, and the Ability Experience. His goal is to get a PhD in economics and to find a career in investment banking to help people achieve their financial goals.

Ramadje Benoudjita is currently studying at Regis University, where he is pursuing a bachelor’s in accounting. Ramadje overcame great challenges to study and live in the United States. He has participated in programs such as Brother 2 Brother, the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, and has volunteered at numerous community events.  As one of his references stated, “He brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience, and sincerity that truly fosters successful learning and builds community.”