Desert Financial Foundation awarded nearly $170,000 in college scholarships to 65 Arizona high school seniors and adult learners, five of them to Peoria learners.

It is the most scholarships the foundation has ever awarded at one time, according to a news release.

The Peoria recipients were:

• John Paul Rafol  received a $2,500 community service scholarship. Graduated from Sunrise Mountain High School in May 2023.

• Macario "Mac" Mellecker  received a $2,500 community service scholarship. Graduated from co-enrollment at Liberty High School and Cactus High School in May 2023.

• Kimberly Black  received a $2,000 adult learner scholarship. She is pursuing an associate's degree in nursing.

• Melquisedec Araiza received a $2,000 adult learner scholarship. He is pursuing a bachelor's degree in English.

• Sonia Rosas received a $2,000 adult learner scholarship. She is pursuing a master's degree in nursing.

“We are an organization founded by teachers,” said Jeff Meshey, Desert Financial Foundation vice-chair. “Education is, and has always been, one of our top priorities. The continued growth of this scholarship program is a testament to the value we place on helping our members attain the education they need to better their lives.”

McClintock High School graduate Gianna Gallegos received the top honor of a $10,000 Community Service Scholarship from Desert Financial. Gallegos volunteered for 350 hours in 2022.

“It’s important for me to give back to my community because they have given so much to me,” said Gallegos. “I grew up attending afterschool programs and summer camps, and they honestly took part in raising me. I feel like it did take a village, and its only right that I give back, it is a full circle moment. ”

In addition to the scholarships, which ranged from $2,000 to $10,000, each recipient received a backpack of gifts from the credit union to prepare them for their higher education experience. Each backpack included an iPad, an iPad case, AirPods and additional school supplies.