7 Tempe students receive Desert Financial Foundation scholarships

The Desert Financial Foundation has awarded $198,000 in scholarships to 62 Arizona students, including seven Tempe students.

Deandra Jefferson of Tempe received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. She is studying to become a registered nurse.

Hao Mei of Tempe received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. He is pursuing a PhD in data science, analytics and engineering at Arizona State University.

Jesus Montijo of Tempe received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. Montijo is pursuing a degree in data science with an emphasis in bioinformatics and business applications.

Soyeon Ko of Tempe received a $5,000 adult learner scholarship. She is pursuing a doctorate in chemical engineering at Arizona State University.

Stephanie Castillo of Tempe received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. Castillo is working on a master’s degree in social work at Arizona State University.

Yeji Choi or Tempe received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. She is working toward a doctorate in electrical and electronic engineering at Arizona State University.

Alireza Rahimi of Tempe received a $3,000 adult learner scholarship. Rahimi is pursuing a doctorate in civil, environmental and sustainable engineering.

The students were selected for their commitment to volunteerism, determination to continue their education, and dedication to building better futures, according to a release.

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.

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,” Jeff Meshey, Desert Financial Foundation vice-chair, said in the release. “These scholarships are just one way we invest in people who are working hard to better their lives, families and communities.”

Each recipient was celebrated during the 2025 Desert Financial Foundation Scholarship Ceremony held at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix on May 7, 2025. In addition to their scholarship awards, students received a gift basket from Desert Financial filled with items to support their educational journey, including Sony headphones, a Hydro Flask water bottle, an Uber gift card, snacks, and school supplies.

To learn about Desert Financial Foundation’s scholarship programs, visit DesertFinancial.com/Scholarships.

Founded in 2015, Desert Financial Foundation supports organizations and individuals in Arizona to strengthen financial capability through education and scholarships. To learn more about how Desert Financial Foundation gives back or to donate, visit DesertFinancial.com/Foundation.

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