Each year, Credit Union 1 is proud to offer the Bill Countryman Scholarship program to Alaskans in pursuit of higher education goals. These scholarships celebrate our roots as an Anchorage teachers’ credit union and our passion for lifelong learning!
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Abigail K. (Palmer) - Abigail has been involved in athletics all her life and is now studying physical therapy. She is dedicated in this pursuit and has secured two physical therapy technician jobs, one club leadership position, a basketball coaching position and a teaching assistant role. She has an appreciation for community and volunteers her time with multiple nonprofit organizations.
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Anna B. (Anchorage) - Anna is pursuing a career as a speech-language pathologist. She is graduating with Bachelor of Arts in Speech Pathology & Audiology and a minor in Spanish, and will continue her education toward a Master of Arts. She hopes to serve others and support them in their ability to communicate effectively with the people around them.
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Avrey C. (Anchorage) - Avrey is a talented and accomplished student-athlete who titled her essay submission "We rise by lifting others." She lives her life with this belief and it is evident in her accomplishments, volunteerism and character. She volunteers her time supporting youth soccer, local running events, Ski 4 Kids, and more. Avrey plans to study civil engineering.
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Cecilia P. (Kodiak) - Cecilia was inspired by her family, personal health challenges and experience volunteering in global health clinics to become an occupational therapist dedicated to helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. She plays an active role in school and in her community and maintains academic excellence.
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Connor C. (Eagle River) - Connor is an athlete, entrepreneur, certified EMT and firefighter, and student. His experiences are diverse and centered on his desire to help others. Currently working with the Alaska Court System, Connor is pursuing a law degree so he can represent fellow Alaskans in court and help them navigate the laws with empathy and diligence.
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Emmarie E. (Kenai) - Driven by a love for math and a desire for a practical career that fills a need in her community, Emmarie chose to pursue a degree in accounting. She hopes to build a robust and well-rounded understanding of business and accounting, and she intends to share her knowledge to the benefit of local students, businesses and organizations.
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John S. (Kodiak) - John is a standout student with strong leadership skills and a deep commitment to his community. He excels academically, balancing AP courses while auditing Harvard’s online computer science class, and actively volunteers through Key Club. John plans to major in computer science, combining his passion for math with his drive for coding and program management.
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Julia S. (Nome) - Julia is a well-rounded student who has been actively involved in varsity volleyball, Educators Rising, Girl Scouts and Drama Club. Her volunteer work with children in local hospitals and schools reflects a strong commitment to her community. Julia plans to study business and marketing, aiming to apply her leadership skills and creativity in a professional setting.
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Kailee W. (Anchorage) - Kailee is an active and dedicated student involved in cross-country running, basketball and the National Honor Society, where she also serves as a peer mentor. She volunteers regularly and has received numerous academic and athletic honors. Kailee is pursuing a career as a physical therapist to help others manage chronic pain and live fuller, more independent lives.
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Karen C. (Anchorage) - With several years of experience working for nonprofit Alaska Native organizations, Karen has helped families create paths toward self-sufficiency. She is pursuing an Occupational Endorsement Certificate in IT Support Desk Technician. Her goal is to apply her training in the workforce and later pursue an associate degree in Computer Science to further contribute to the needs of her village.
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Nhu D. (Kodiak) - Nhu previously earned Bachelor of Science degree in International Business. Inspired by the compassionate care she received during the births of her children, she returned to school and is now enrolled in a Pre-Nursing program. Nhu is committed to learning, including studying multiple languages to better connect with patients from diverse backgrounds. Her journey reflects resilience, determination and a desire to serve the community she calls home.
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Paige R. (Wasilla) - Paige has always wanted to be an engineer. Her experiences with state infrastructure projects have shown the importance of collaboration, technical precision, and adaptability in real-world engineering. Working on major highway projects and taking on leadership roles strengthened her confidence and practical skills. She aims to contribute to the state’s unique and challenging infrastructure needs.
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Rafael B. (Kodiak) - Rafael developed a deep appreciation for the power of education and storytelling through is upbringing and experiences. Through work with a nonprofit focused on inclusive media, he discovered how digital tools can give voice to students often left out of traditional learning environments. Now, he is pursuing studies in Learning Design and Technology to create solutions that bridge cultural and digital divides.
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Riley V. (Fairbanks) - Currently pursuing a master's degree in Criminology, Riley brings a multidisciplinary academic background and hands-on experience in the justice system. Through internships, legislative work and courtroom observation, she has developed a strong commitment to criminal justice reform. She is preparing for law school with the goal of serving Alaska through legal advocacy.
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Sienna P. (Anchorage) - Sienna has been actively involved in volleyball, basketball, and track and field. Outside of school, she volunteers in her community by helping keep her neighborhood clean, assisting basketball workouts for younger kids, and supporting a local soup kitchen. In college, Sienna will continue her basketball career and begin her studies toward becoming a dental hygienist.
- Wiktoria G. (Anchorage) - Growing up in Alaska, Wiktoria developed a deep love for nature and a strong commitment to preserving it for future generations. Motivated by the visible impacts of climate change in Alaska, she is determined to make a difference. She chose to study environmental engineering and is passionate about ensuring a healthier, more sustainable planet for all.
In total, we’re excited to give $35,000 in scholarship funds to the above CU1 members! We’d also like to extend special thanks to all talented applicants who applied for our 2025 Bill Countryman Scholarship. While reviewing each and every application, we were proud to see how so many of you are expanding your education to help make Alaska an even better place to live.
