Desert Financial Foundation awarded 62 Arizona students, including seven from Gilbert, with college scholarships totaling $198,000 on May 13.

The students, who were celebrated at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix, were selected for their commitment to volunteerism, determination to continue their education, and dedication to building better futures.

The scholarship program includes Community Service Scholarships for high school seniors who volunteer in their communities, Adult Learners Scholarships for adults ages 25 or older who are pursuing certificates or degrees and Passion to Help Scholarships for dependents of Desert Financial team members who give back to their communities through volunteerism.

Nearly 200 Arizona students applied.

The seven recipients from Gilbert were: 

• Corianne Lopez received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. She is pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy.
• Levi Flake received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. Flake is enrolled in the nursing program at Maricopa Community Colleges.
• Russell Crotts received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. He is pursuing a master’s degree in counseling at Ottawa University.
• Ana Monterrosa received a $3,000 Community Service Scholarship. The Chandler Online Academy senior will attend Arizona State University in the fall.
• Hailey Merrill received a $3,000 Community Service Scholarship. The Casteel High School senior will attend Northern Arizona University in the fall.
• Brody Allen, a senior at Perry High School in Gilbert, received a $3,000 Passion to Help scholarship. Allen will attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the fall to study aerospace engineering.
• Gunnar Smith, a Perry High School graduate, received a $3,000 Passion to Help scholarship.  Smith will pursue a degree in computer science at the University of Arizona.

Since launching the scholarship program in 2015, Desert Financial Foundation has awarded more than $1.7 million to deserving students who are furthering their education to build brighter futures.

“We believe education is a powerful tool for improving financial wellness,” said Jeff Meshey, Desert Financial Foundation vice-chair. “These scholarships are just one way we invest in people who are working hard to better their lives, families and communities.”