LAPLACE, LA – Louisiana Federal Credit Union (FCU) is excited to announce the recipients of its annual Ronald E. Thomas (R.E.T.) Memorial Scholarship. Six graduating seniors in southeast Louisiana were chosen by the credit union to receive $2,000 each.
The 2023 scholarship recipients are Erin Powell of Saint Charles Catholic High School, Raymond Godail of Terrebonne High School, Jalacey Bartholomew of Lutcher High School, Emy Mascair of Hammond High Magnet School, Mallory Cheramie of Hahnville High School, and Emily Falgout of Dutchtown High School.
The scholarship, named for the late Ronald E. Thomas, who served as a Louisiana FCU board member for more than 65 years, recognizes graduating high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding leadership and altruism in the community.
College often brings financial vulnerability for many young adults. The combination of everyday expenses and limited financial knowledge can lead to hardships. According to a recent study, an alarming 72% of college students face financial stress, which can result in increased drop-out rates, health concerns, and lower GPAs.
"As college expenses continue to climb, scholarships play a vital role in supporting students,” said Rhonda Hotard, President and CEO at Louisiana FCU. “We are delighted to assist our members in realizing their aspirations and contributing to a brighter future for both themselves and our community through the R.E.T. Scholarship.”
Emily Falgout, a scholar for 2023, says she is actively preparing for her financial future by opening a savings account and budgeting her monthly expenses.
“I’m excited this scholarship is going to help me actually do what I want to do,” said Falgout.
Louisiana FCU actively promotes financial literacy among southeast Louisiana youth through various programs that develop money management skills, track financial decisions, and teach budgeting for the future.
About Louisiana FCU
Louisiana Federal Credit Union is a full-service not-for-profit financial institution serving more than 36,000 members in Louisiana. For more information about the credit union, visit www.LouisianaFCU.org.
Contact
Kim Bourgeois
Director of Business Development & Community Outreach
t. 985.653.1752
e. kbourgeois@LouisianaFCU.org
www.LouisianaFCU.org
Photos
Scholarship recipient, Emy Mascair, graduated from Hammond High Magnet School after, where she served as a National Honor Society member.
Scholarship recipient and graduate of Terrebonne High School, Raymond Godail, successfully became a manager at his first job while in school.
Scholarship recipient Jalacey Bartholomew graduated from Lutcher High School and was a proud drum major of her school band.
Scholarship recipient Erin Powell is a graduate of Saint Charles Catholic High School and a member of the 30+ Club after scoring a 31 on her ACT.
Scholarship recipient Mallory Cheramie is a graduate of Hahnville High School and a member of the National Honor Society.
Scholarship recipient Emily Falgout is a graduate of Dutchtown High School and proudly received a 30 on the ACT.