June 5, 2009 ( Olympia, WA) – The Washington State Employees Credit Union (WSECU) announced it has awarded four scholarships to students at New Market Vocational Skills Center (NMVSC).

            Each year WSECU provides scholarships to four New Market graduating students. New Market is a vocational training center which serves students from several South Sound school districts.  The scholarships were established in honor of Bill Brandt, WSECU’s former CEO, and his late wife Jodie Brandt.  Bill and Jodie were extremely committed to vocational education, and Bill continues to be a champion of New Market.  WSECU is a partner in the Financial Academy and runs an on-campus branch at the school.

            The scholarship winners receive $1,000 and are chosen based on several criteria including academic record, financial need, community involvement, and a written essay. Here are this year’s recipients:

            Heather Brooks will have earned an AA degree from SPSCC when she receives her New Market diploma in June. She has been accepted to Western Washington University where she will eventually earn a Master’s degree in accounting. She plans to become a Certified Public Accountant.

            Danielle Fletcher will continue her business focus at a community college and hopes to become a successful business woman. 

            Nicole Fletcher has been accepted to Centralia College, and she plans to transfer to Central Washington University to earn a business degree. Her career goal: Fundraising Coordinator for an animal preservation foundation. 

            Stephan Phillips has earned a combined 3.95 GPA in his NM automotive studies this year.  He will pursue his ATA degree in automotive at SPSCC to meet his goals of becoming a master technician and business owner.

        Bill Brandt and current WSECU Board members presented the awards at a recent ceremony on the New Market campus.