We have long believed that higher education can be a great equalizer in life by providing a path to opportunity. We feel truly blessed to work with such supportive college and university partners and a talented, committed group of scholarship students who will one day make a big difference in this world!
—Al and Cathy Annexstad
Congratulations to the 2014 Annexstad Family Foundation
Hope and Inpiration Scholarship Recipient
Logan Galindo
College: Northern Michigan University
Major: Music Education
“Northern is finally starting to feel like my second home! I love the community and the atmosphere, but the best part is all of my friends. Before college, I felt like I had no future. Being a teen parent, I felt I couldn’t go away to college and leave my child back home. When I was offered an Annexstad Family Foundation Scholarship, as reluctant as I was, I took the adventure that was Northern Michigan University. I am so glad I chose to attend. Thank you so much for everything you have done! I feel like I have a bright future waiting to be fulfilled.”
Congratulations to the 2014 Al and Cathy Annexstad
Hope and Inspiration Scholarship Recipient
Molly Rudenick
College: Minnesota State University, Moorhead
Major: Art Education
“This past summer I worked at a day care and it has become more apparent to me that I would like to become an art teacher. I enjoy watching kids grow and become more creative through making art projects. The Annexstad Scholarship means the world to me! Without this scholarship I wouldn’t have been financially able to pay for college. It has opened so many opportunities for my new life away from home. It has helped me grow into a responsible adult. This scholarship has absolutely changed my life.”
Congratulations to the 2014 Horatio Alger Association
Al and Cathy Annexstad Scholarship Recipients
Tristen Thompson
College: Emory University
Major: Film, Art History, and Philosophy
“I am blessed and honored to be an Annexstad Scholar. Thank you, Annexstad Family Foundation, for reminding me that I am so much more than my circumstances. It is easy to be disheartened and stressed about one’s financial situation as a student. However, how much money one has in no way reflects who one is as a person or what one is capable of accomplishing. Always be and do your best because you never know who’s watching and waiting to help and reward you.”
Courtney Shirley
College: Georgia Institute of Technology
Major: Biochemistry
“By awarding me the Horatio Alger Association Al and Cathy Annexstad Scholarship, I am able to concentrate on what is most important for me: my education. Your financial generosity is appreciated and accepted with extreme honor. Your support has allowed me to be one step closer to my goal and has inspired me to help others by giving back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help other students achieve their goal just as you have helped me.
Thank you again for your generosity.”
Emerald Whitaker
College: Spelman College
Major: Biology
“I can’t put into words how grateful I am to the Annexstad Family Foundation for this Scholarship. Truly without this financial assistance I would not be able to attend Spelman College nor would I be able to further my education in hopes of continuing on to medical school. I promise to take full advantage of the opportunity that has been given to me and become as successful as possible to show that I am worthy of your generous investment.”
Morgan Pippin
College: University of Georgia
Major: Psychology and Sociology
“In high school I was involved in everything. Some saw me as a nerd, but I viewed extracurriculars as a reprieve from my home life. I grew up in a poor, abusive home and I did not think much of it past that. I did not see how much my involvement would help me in the future. In part, because of my extensive involvement, I was accepted to the university of my dreams. Here at the University of Georgia, I am working toward a major in psychology and sociology with a minor in English. I aspire to work in higher education and continue my involvement with the university
systems. I am truly blessed to have received this great scholarship. The Annexstad Family Foundation has changed my life. I will be forever grateful.”
Sam Arroyo
College: University of Notre Dame
Major: Biological Sciences
“One of the things that brings joy to my life is helping others and is one of the reasons I aspire to be a doctor. This scholarship is so important to me because it has helped fund my education which in turn has put me one step closer to accomplishing my goals. I’m grateful for the opportunity that the Annexstad Family Foundation has given me.”
Promise Choice
College: University of Notre Dame
Major: Information Technology Management and African American Studies
“I grew up in a family of modest means in Downriver, Michigan. In my wildest dreams I never imagined that someone like me would be able to pursue higher education, let alone that there would be people generous enough to support me, and help me achieve my dreams. I do not know where my education will take me, but I have no doubt that it will open an infinite amount of doors for me. I am bursting at the seams with passion and ambition and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me. I can never thank the Annexstad family enough for their generosity and unwavering encouragement as I begin to find my way in the world.”
Travis Gayle
College: University of Notre Dame
Major: Computer Science
“I applied for many scholarships during my senior year of high school. I felt like I didn’t have a choice. Some rejected me and as for others – I was blessed to have earned. Fast forward to my first semester at the University of Notre Dame where I was informed that I had been awarded an Annexstad Scholarship. I learned that it is never too late to receive God’s blessings! I am beyond grateful.”
Rachel Lewis
College: University of Notre Dame
Major: Program of Liberal Studies
“We have a motto in our family: As long as we know the truth, we can handle anything. The truth is that without the Annexstad Scholarship it would be much more difficult to attend such a wonderful university as Notre Dame. I have always known I would not be able to attend college without financial assistance, as my family could not afford it. However, thanks to the Annexstad Scholarship, I have the opportunity to not only further my education, but to further understand myself as well.”
Andrew Mikes
College: University of Notre Dame
Major: Chemical Engineering
“I want to thank you for the financial support you have given me. Without the generous support of the Annexstad Family Foundation it would have been more difficult to attend Notre Dame. If you want people to treat your challenges seriously, you have to treat theirs seriously, no matter how trivial they may seem. If the easy logical solution for their problem immediately appears before you, chances are that you don’t understand the problem from their viewpoint. Treating others’ problems just as seriously as your own is an important part of developing into a compassionate and caring person.”
Congratulations to Additional 2014 Annexstad Scholarship Recipients
Alex Bauer
College: Bethel University
Major: Journalism
“This scholarship is the only reason I’m able to attend college due to my family’s financial concerns. I consider it a blessing that I received such a prestigious award. I hope to get involved in extracurricular activities and to make lifelong friendships.”
Catlin Moral
College: College of Saint Benedict
Major: Education
“I really want to work with students and make a difference. When I received the call that I had been awarded the Annexstad Scholarship, I was overcome with so many emotions. I felt incredibly honored to receive the support from the Annexstad family. I like my classes and have found that this is the perfect size school. I have connected with new friends and can work towards my dream to help students who are English-language learners.”
Britany Williams
College: Concordia College
Major: Biology and Chemistry
“I had never received anything like this scholarship before. I cried when I found out I had been selected. I never get my hopes up for anything until I know for sure, and without this scholarship I wouldn’t have gone to college. The Annexstads have taken a huge weight off everyone’s shoulders as we were trying to figure things out while my mom was in prison. I would like to pursue a career where I can be there for women and families and that includes medical school one day.”
Chrissy Dornon
College: Gustavus Adolphus College
Major: Political Science
“Because of the scholarship, I have one less thing to worry about financially. I was wondering where I was going to go for college because of my family’s financial situation and the Annexstads helped make it happen. Gustavus Adolphus College is a perfect fit. College has allowed me to become active in groups I am passionate about and experience what it’s like to live on my own away from home for the first time. I am so grateful for the opportunity to earn a degree.”
Frances Engeler
College: Indiana University, Bloomington
Major: Elementary Special Education
“Through my experiences I’ve realized that no matter where we come from or what we go through, we can succeed in spite of it all with hard work and dedication. This ideal is something I want my students to believe in when I become a teacher.”
Emily Cordova
College: Minnesota State University, Mankato
Major: Psychology
“I am so thankful waking up each day knowing that finances will not be an additional worry during my education. Seeing my dedication to get a degree has encouraged other friends to consider college. The Annexstads have done something for me that I would like to do for others one day. They are an inspiration. I want to use the challenges I’ve been through and give back. College is an opportunity to learn about oneself and other people, which I am excited to do in pursuit of my psychology degree.”
Payton Creger
College: Minnesota State University, Mankato
Major: Computer Engineering
“I am so grateful for the scholarship which has given me a chance to leave college debt-free. It is an awesome opportunity to attend Minnesota State University, Mankato. With my degree I would like to get a job working for a computer-related company.”
Ronnie McCrimmon
College: Minnesota State University, Mankato
Major: Dental Hygiene
“College is giving me the opportunity to become a dental hygienist and to better my future. One day I would like to travel, which is not an opportunity for many people where I come from. This scholarship means a lot to me. I am very thankful for what the Annexstads have done for me and all the other students who were fortunate enough to receive this scholarship.”
Kattlynn Winkelman
College: Minnesota State University, Moorhead
Major: Graphic Design
“Al and Cathy and their family are amazing. I was shocked to find out I received this beautiful opportunity. I can’t believe I am able to attend Minnesota State University, Moorhead because of their generosity. I want to have a career in graphic design and make things that inspire people just by looking at them. The excitement of my courses and the chance to work on campus are opportunities I am taking advantage of as I enter the field of graphic design.”
Ici Kelley
College: St. Catherine University
Major: Social Work
“I was in awe when I found out I received the Annexstad Scholarship! I’m so thankful for the opportunity to go to St. Catherine University and pursue my dream of doing work that gives back. I would like to pursue a degree in social work and work with youth.”
Dycreeshia Walker
College: St. Catherine University
Major: Social Work
“I am a first-generation student. No one in my family has gone to college. I don’t have words to explain
how happy and grateful I am for the Annexstad Scholarship. I am gaining global perspectives from my time at St. Catherine University. My dream is to work as a social worker in the clinical field with a minor in chemical dependency. I greatly appreciate the investment that the Annexstads have made in my education and my life.”
Kayla Combs
College: St. Cloud State University
Major: Social Work
“Over the course of my K-12 education going to college was always a topic of conversation. I grew up knowing that to be successful in today’s society, college would be a necessity. However, I always worried about how I was going to pay for it. I cannot say confidently that I would have enrolled in college if it weren’t for the Annexstad Family Foundation Scholarship. With my education I hope to bring awareness to the social justice issues that plague our communities… and do everything I can to help fix them.”
Kang Moua
College: St. Cloud State University
Major: Social Work
“My hope for the future is to reach all my goals. My motivation is my parents, my mentor Deanna and myself. I thank Deanna for motivating me to apply to college. Growing up in a big family, I was always compared to my siblings to see how far we can go in life. I guess I always hit many obstacles, including school, family problems and so much more, but I never let them bring me down because I want to have the best. Whatever challenge I encounter, I never let it bother me because it’s just another step in life I must overcome. This scholarship means so much to me and I see a bigger perspective of life and how much it can give to me. I continue to work toward my career and spread my knowledge to many people, especially to many other Hmong students. I really want to encourage them to keep working and fighting towards their dream.”
Rusaba Tasnim
College: St. Cloud State University
Major: Biomedical and Pre Physician Assistant
“Everyone has dreams to be someone they want to be. My hope is to work as a part of a team in the medical field. My life challenges have made me the person I am today. They have taught me to be independent, to be strong, and to believe in myself. I never thought I would be this lucky to receive the Annexstad Scholarship! You believe in me; I am not the only one who wants me to succeed. I now have chance in life to make a difference in the world and be the person I have always wanted to be. Thank you for this big opportunity.”
Rashaan Eder
College: Southwest Minnesota State University
Major: Graphic Design
“When learned that I had received an Annexstad Scholarship, that was the first time I was able to say out loud that I’m going to college. My dream is to work in a career I love and give back using art. It would be awesome to work for myself one day. All the professors I have are excited to see me. I extend my gratitude to the Annexstad Family Foundation.”
Abel Rivera Ramirez
College: University of Georgia
Major: Civil Engineering
“By receiving the Annexstad Family Foundation Scholarship, I have been given the opportunity to mold a brighter future for myself and my family. This opportunity will allow me to pursue my dreams and become the individual I have always hoped to become through education and community service.”
Desiree Sunde
College: University of Minnesota, Morris
Major: Biology
“I am majoring in biology, and I am part of the pre-veterinary program. One day I will be able to work with animals, which has always been a dream of mine. This scholarship is very important to me as it is going to help me achieve my dreams and have a successful future.”
Kevin Cao
College: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Major: Kinesiology
“Receiving this scholarship and attending the University of Minnesota is one of the proudest moments in my life. I am so appreciative to the Annexstad Family Foundation; words do not describe how grateful I am. Finances for college used to be a big burden on my shoulders, but now that has turned around and my goal is to become an athletic trainer.”
Rosemary Nyuma
College: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Major: Nursing
“I am so thankful for the Annexstad Scholarship. It has helped me tremendously by allowing me to continue on with my education and to pursue my dreams without the financial burden. As a first-generation college student, I always knew that the future I envisioned for myself required me to attend college so that I could not only make a difference in my life, but for my family and community as well. The Annexstad Family Foundation has given me the opportunity to do that. It has allowed me to create a better future for myself and at the same time impact others. For that I am forever grateful.”
Bethany Ellis
College: University of St. Thomas
Major: Exercise Science
“I am pursuing a degree in exercise science to work as a chiropractor or orthopedic surgeon in the future. I graduated from high school with honors and I was a three-sport athlete. I really enjoy sports and physical activity as they provide life skills in a different setting. Some challenges that motivate me are hearing about youth in the community in need of a mentor whose parents may not be home due to working multiple jobs. I want them to know there are people who truly care. The Annexstad Scholarship is such a blessing to have received. Without this scholarship, I would not be able to attend the University of St. Thomas, my first college choice.”
Logan Woessner
College: University of St. Thomas
Major: Neuroscience
“I hope that in the future I will find myself in a successful career using a combined neuroscience bachelor’s degree and computer science master’s degree to work in a fun and satisfying field where I will be constantly learning. Growing up with a busy family and single mother, education has always been extremely important. The Annexstad Family Foundation Scholarship has allowed me to go to an excellent school where I can get a good education in a field that I am interested in.”
Aysiah Chappell
College: Valdosta State University
Major: Biology
“I am extremely grateful to be a recipient of the Annexstad Family Foundation Scholarship. At the time I made the decision to attend Valdosta State University, I had no scholarships to help me with tuition. I had no idea what I was going to do because I would have either been up to my neck in loans by the time I graduated or not been able to go to college. I was so ecstatic when I found out that the Annexstad Family was gracious enough to help fund my education! I am so thankful that they chose to invest in me.”
Joanna Smith
College: Valdosta State University
Major: Communications Disorders
“Being a student at Valdosta State University has changed my life. I’ve had so many wonderful opportunities like being in Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity Inc., being a member of the Blazin’ Brigade Marching Band, founding the marching band’s very first marketing team, and being on the Dean’s List for both semesters. I’m so thankful to the Annexstad Family Foundation Scholarship for giving me the chance to have these opportunities.”