Cathay Bank Foundation Honors 2024 Scholarship Achievers
The Cathay Bank Foundation is thrilled to announce the 20 recipients of the 2024 Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship. This year, the scholarship program has seen a remarkable increase in participation, with a total of 720 applications submitted. This represents a 35% rise from last year’s applications, showcasing the growing interest in educational support among students.
Among the applicants, more than 29% marked a significant milestone as the first in their families to attend college. Furthermore, 90% of those who applied are from minority backgrounds, highlighting the diverse pool of talent vying for this opportunity.
Selection Process and Criteria
The Asian Pacific Community Fund managed the scholarship program and meticulously reviewed the submissions. They narrowed down the vast pool to 487 highly qualified candidates. Volunteers from Cathay Bank participated in a thorough evaluation process to select the final 20 awardees, ensuring that deserving candidates were recognized.
Scholarship Impact on Recipients
The Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship is not just a financial award; it symbolizes the Foundation's long-standing commitment to enhancing educational outcomes within communities. Each scholarship recipient will receive $2,500, a significant contribution towards their tuition costs, empowering them as they embark on their higher education journeys.
Meet the 2024 Scholarship Recipients
The recipients of the 2024 Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship embody the sheer determination and academic excellence within their respective states. Here’s a look at the outstanding individuals:
- California – Alan Zeng
- California – Ania Saucedo Cedillo
- California – Annie Cai
- California – Yanfen Lin
- Illinois – Aarya Drover
- Illinois – Alice Jiang
- Maryland – Aarju Karki
- Maryland – Yaa Ofori-Appiah
- Massachusetts – Aileen Lopez-Merida
- Massachusetts – Jessica Li
- Nevada – Isaac Briones
- Nevada – Rochelle K-Ahwireng
- New Jersey – Derek Cho
- New Jersey – Martin Bassett
- New York – Bianna Chen
- New York – Sylvia Tai
- Texas – Sara Essa
- Texas – Sebastian Rico
- Washington – Alvin Sung
- Washington – Shilten Kenzhegazy
Support from Cathay Bank Leadership
Deborah Ching, Chair of the Cathay Bank Foundation, expressed pride in the scholarship recipients, stating, “The recipients showcase a range of talents across various fields of study. Each recipient demonstrates a strong drive to make meaningful contributions to their communities and this nation. We are honored to assist these remarkable individuals in reaching their academic and professional aspirations.”
Additionally, Nancy Tarr, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Development at Cathay Bank, emphasized the Foundation's commitment to supporting youth. She stated, “Investing in exceptional students through scholarships signals our long-term investment in the future. This year, we’ve enhanced the scholarship amount to $2,500, providing greater assistance to these deserving emerging leaders.”
Commitment to Future Generations
The Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship program continues to flourish, making a positive difference in the lives of deserving students annually. This initiative reflects the Foundation's enduring promise to invest in future community leaders, empowering them to achieve their goals and contribute positively to society.
About Cathay Bank Foundation
Cathay Bank Foundation, established in 2002, focuses on creating opportunities in several key areas, including affordable housing, community development, and education. In addition to these crucial areas, the Foundation actively supports programs promoting culture and arts, health and welfare, as well as environmental and human services that provide benefits to the communities it serves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship?
The scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students pursuing higher education, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
How many applicants were there for the 2024 scholarship?
This year, the scholarship program received a total of 720 applications.
What is the scholarship amount for 2024 recipients?
Each recipient will receive $2,500 to assist with their tuition costs.
Who administers the Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship?
The Asian Pacific Community Fund is the program administrator overseeing the selection process.
What is the mission of the Cathay Bank Foundation?
The Foundation's mission is focused on creating opportunities in education, affordable housing, and community development, among other areas.