The Associated Credit Union Foundation announced recipients of the 2023 Ronald K. Ford Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2019, the scholarship honors beloved 12-year Board of Directors member, Ronald K. Ford. Out of 150 applicants, four outstanding high school seniors were selected to receive a $2,500 award and the opportunity to intern with the credit union this summer.
Lin Hodges, President, and CEO of Associated Credit Union said, “Ronald K. Ford was a wonderful advocate for the credit union industry and a great board member. He was a successful Fortune 500 executive and an outstanding athlete. Ron loved to see young people succeed and pursue their thirst for knowledge. He would have been very pleased with this year’s recipients.”
The Ronald K. Ford Memorial Scholarship recognizes emerging leaders who share Mr. Ford's passion for education and community. This year's recipients, reviewed and selected by the credit union’s Executive team, demonstrate academic success, exceptional character, and a strong desire to positively impact the world.
The 2023 scholarship recipients:
Eden Melka, graduating from Brookwood High School, attending Emory University to pursue a degree in Education.
Jiya Thomas, graduating from Brookwood High School, attending the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in Biology.
Kristen Robinson, graduating from Hiram High School, attending Hampton University to pursue a degree in Secondary Education.
Sergio Magana, graduating from Norcross High School, attending the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in Business.
“Receiving this scholarship means the world to me because it will provide me with the resources to explore all of my passions these next four years and empower me to make a difference,” said Eden Melka.
Through the Ronald K. Ford memorial scholarship, Mr. Ford’s legacy of service continues.
Scholarship recipients Sergio Magana, Eden Melka, and Jiya Thomas pictured with their families, Associated Credit Union executives, and Associated Credit Union Foundation Manager.
Scholarship recipient Kristen Robinson pictured with her family, Associated Credit Union executives, and Associated Credit Union Foundation committee members.