Coconino News

Applications are now open for the sixth annual Empowering Diversity Scholarship, organized by the Fiesta Sports Foundation. This scholarship program, supported by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, aims to fund educational goals for students across Arizona. Applications will be accepted until March 14 at 5 p.m. MST.

The scholarship has benefited 119 students over its first five years and plans to support an additional 28 individuals this year. Information about applications and FAQs can be found at FiestaBowl.org/DiversityScholarship. Recipients will be notified in late April.

Fiesta Sports Foundation Executive Director and CEO Erik Moses stated, "No one should face educational barriers to pursue their dreams." He emphasized that the scholarship seeks to provide equal opportunities for education, whether through post-secondary education or a GED.

The Empowering Diversity Scholarship is available through separate tracks for GEDs and post-secondary education. Last year, it awarded scholarships to 28 Arizonans—15 in the post-secondary track and 13 in the GED track.

For high school seniors or current students at Arizona post-secondary institutions selected for the post-secondary track, a one-time $5,000 scholarship is awarded along with $500 in wraparound support services from Be A Leader Foundation or Education Forward Arizona. These recipients must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0.

The GED track supports residents aged 16 or older who have not graduated from high school or received an equivalency certificate. Recipients receive $500 to cover GED assessment fees and $500 in program support services provided by College Depot.

Paul Penzone, VP and Chief Community Relations Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, said, “We are happy to continue our partnership with the Fiesta Bowl to support the educational aspirations of Arizonans.” He noted that investing in education fosters growth and success within the state.

Arizona ranks as the tenth most diverse state in the U.S., making access to education crucial for improving quality of life among underrepresented residents.

More information about last year's recipients can be accessed online.

Since its founding in 1971, Fiesta Sports Foundation has been committed to community outreach through various events such as Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe. The organization supports nonprofit initiatives focused on youth, sports, and education throughout Arizona.