Fiesta Bowl, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Open Applications for Empowering Diversity Scholarship
Grants will be awarded to Arizona minority students
SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Continuing their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Fiesta Bowl and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona have opened applications for the second year of the Empowering Diversity Scholarship.
The Empowering Diversity Scholarship was created to support Arizona minority residents with their educational goals.
This year there are two tracks for the Empowering Diversity Scholarship. The GED (general education development) Track is open to Arizona residents who are interested in obtaining their GED. The scholarship will cover fees associated with the assessment and additional program support services provided by College Depot.
The Post-Secondary Track is open to Arizona, minority students in their senior year of high school or college students attending an Arizona post-secondary institution. Recipients will be awarded a $5,000 grant with additional support services provided by Be A Leader Foundation or College Success Arizona for their pursuit of higher education.
Applications will open on May 10, 2021 and will close on May 28, 2021 at 6 p.m. (MST). The application, frequently asked questions, opportunities to donate to the scholarship and more information can be found at Fiestabowl.org/DiversityScholarship.
“Through our partnership with Fiesta Bowl, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona is able to continue providing opportunities that enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Pam Kehaly, President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. “We hope this scholarship helps students pursue their passions and carry out the mission of creating more inclusive communities here in Arizona.” GED Track applicants must be an Arizona resident, a minority, and demonstrate a strong commitment to the community.
Post-Secondary Track applicants must be high school seniors or college students attending an Arizona post-secondary institution (including four-year colleges or universities, two-year colleges, vocational-technical schools and programs, and life skills programs) to be eligible. Applicants must also be a minority, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate a strong commitment and/or contribution to the community.
“Championing diversity and inclusion is necessary to support and enhance our community. This program provides opportunities for our future leaders to take the next step in their journeys," said Fiesta Bowl Executive Director, Mike Nealy. “We are happy to partner with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona again for this important scholarship program because our organizations share the same commitment and values of enhancing the lives of Arizonans.”
In its inaugural year in 2020, the Empowering Diversity Scholarship presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Fiesta Bowl awarded 16 recipients $5,000 grants for their higher education. The recipients brought with them a variety of inspiring stories, and all had a deep commitment to their community. They attended or planned to attend: Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, Grand Canyon University, and Coconino Community College.
ABOUT FIESTA BOWL
Since 1971, the Fiesta Bowl is a world-class community organization that executes innovative experiences, drives economic growth and champions charitable causes, inspiring pride in all Arizonans during and outside of college football bowl season. As a nonprofit organization, it is driven by its vision for the importance of community outreach and service. Through the PlayStation® Fiesta Bowl, Cactus Bowl and its year-round events, such as the Desert Financial Fiesta Bowl Parade, presented by Cheez-It®, corporate partnerships and numerous community events throughout the year, the organization provides charitable giving to enhance Arizona nonprofit organizations that serve communities through youth, sports and education.
ABOUT BCBSAZ
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) is committed to helping Arizonans get healthier faster and stay healthier longer. With a focus on connecting people with the care they need, BCBSAZ offers health insurance and related services to more than 1.7 million customers. Through advanced clinical programs and community outreach, BCBSAZ is inspiring health in Arizona. BCBSAZ, a not-for-profit company, is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. The company, and its subsidiaries, employ more than 2,600 people in its Phoenix, Chandler, Flagstaff, and Tucson offices.