Past Recipients

Your support of the Kit Faragher Foundation will allow these, and future deserving students to attend college.  We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so your donation is tax deductible as allowed by law. 

Our 2023 Recipients

Caryl Anne Bender

Caryl Anne Bender, one of four 2023 recipients and our Geauga County Ohio recipient, graduated from Chardon High School in Geauga County with a 3.02 GPA. Caryl Anne is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Kent State University in Kent, OH where she is studying Zoology/Pre-Veterinarian Medicine. She is passionate about becoming a vet to provide proper care for pets whether the family can afford it or not. In high school, she played soccer, participated in drama club and National Honor Society, all while working at Chardon Vet Hospital.





Olivia Guseman

Olivia Guseman, another 2023 recipient graduated from Montrose High School in Montrose, CO with a 4.32 GPA. Olivia is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY where she is studying Psychology. In high school, Olivia was involved in Elevation Academy of Dance, Astra Community Service Club, where she served as treasurer, and she won numerous academic awards, all while working at Target.





Fatimata Ndiaye

Fatimata Ndiaye, another 2023 recipient graduated from Hinkley High School in Aurora, CO with a 3.7 GPA. Fatimata, a first-generation college student, is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado State University in Fort Collins where she is studying Biological Science. Fatimata and her family emigrated from West Africa when she was four years old. In high school, Fatimata was involved in basketball, cross country and soccer, all while working at Walmart.





Yaphet Reyes-Powell

Yaphet Reyes-Powell, our 2023 Montrose County Colorado recipient, graduated from Montrose High School with a 4.28 GPA. Yaphet, raised by a single mother, is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at Colgate University in Hamilton, NY; his major is undefined but possibly Computer Science. In high school, Yaphet was involved in Future Business Leaders of America where he won first place in the regional competition, and Cross Fit where he was a youth leader, all while volunteering and managing a greenhouse. He also helped care for his grandparents on weekends, and worked Door Dash to help his mother pay the household bills.





Our 2023 Stipend Recipients

Hope Mitchell

Hope Mitchell graduated from McClave High School in McClave, CO with a 4.0 GPA. Hope received a one-time, $2,000 stipend; she is attending Missouri State University in Springfield to study Nursing or Occupational Therapy. In high school, she was involved in Future Farmers of America, 4-H, volleyball, Future Business Leaders of America, swimming, National Honor Society, newspaper and student government.





Kevin Koppers

Kevin Koppers graduated from D’Evelyn High School in Jefferson County with a 3.01 GPA. Kevin received a one-time, $2,000 stipend; she is attending University of Colorado in Boulder to study Business. In high school, he played football and worked at TJ Maxx and King Soopers.





Our 2022 Recipients

In 2022, the Kit Faragher Foundation awarded three $10,000 scholarships:

Olivia Craig

Olivia Craig, one of our four 2022 recipients, graduated from Pagosa Springs High School in Pagosa Springs, CO with a 3.9 GPA. Olivia, a first-generation college student raised by a single mother, is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at University of San Francisco where she is studying Nursing. In high school, Olivia participated in National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and HOSA (Future Health Professionals) in addition to volunteering for several non-profits.




Dakotah Dunn

Dakotah Dunn, our 2022 Montrose County Colorado recipient, graduated from Olathe High School in Montrose County with 2.84 GPA. Dakotah, a first-generation college student, is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction where he is studying Sports Medicine. In high school, Dakotah was a three-sport athlete (football, basketball and baseball), and participated in Boy Scouts, Future Farmers of America, and 4-H, while working for Target.





Jose Fernandez

Jose Fernandez-Montes, another 2022 recipient, graduated from Gunnison High School in Gunnison, CO with a 3.1 GPA. Jose, a first-generation college student, is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at Western Colorado University in Gunnison where he is studying Pre-Vet. While originally going to attend the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, his plans changed. In high school, he wrestled on the varsity team, and worked approximately 30 hours a week at Walmart to help his parents pay the household expenses.





Michael Soltis

Michael Soltis, our 2022 Geauga County Ohio recipient, graduated from Cardinal High School in Geauga County with a 3.95 GPA. Michael is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at Wilmington College in Ohio where he is studying Agricultural Business. In the future, he hopes to take over the family farm in Middlefield, OH. In high school, he participated in football, track and field, and 4H.





Our 2021 Recipients

In 2021, the Kit Faragher Foundation awarded three $10,000 scholarships:

ashleegreen

Ashlee Green, our 2021 Montrose County Colorado recipient, graduated from Olathe High School in Montrose County with a 4.125. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA where she is studying Kinesiology. In high school, she participated in volleyball and basketball, National Honor Society, and Future Farmers of America for livestock judging.





FernandaMartinez-Reyes

Fernanda Martinez-Reyes, another 2021 recipient, graduated from CEC Early College in Denver, CO with a 4.1 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Regis University in Denver where she is studying Nursing. In high school, she participated in National Honor Society and soccer, completed internships at Lutheran Medical Center, earned her Certificate of Nurse Aide, tutored reading, and volunteered at a nursing home.





KenzieMorris

Mackenzie Morris, our 2021 Geauga County Ohio recipient, graduated from Chardon High School as class valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at College of Wooster in Wooster, OH where she is studying Environmental Science. In high school, she participated in lacrosse (and served as captain), Student Council, and National Honor Society. She volunteered with Girl Scouts and United Way and worked at Alpine Valley Ski Area.





Our 2020 Recipients

In 2020, the Kit Faragher Foundation awarded five $10,000 scholarships:

Abigail Geesling, our 2020 Geauga County Ohio recipient, graduated from Cardinal High School in Middlefield, OH with a 4.07 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Ohio State University where she is studying Business Economics. During high school, she participated in Key Club, Student Council, Speech and Debate, National Honor Society, and she served as class Vice President.





Eric Gutierrez-Camacho, our 2020 Montrose County Colorado recipient, graduated from Montrose High School in Montrose, CO with a 4.04 GPA. He is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at Colorado State University where he is studying Civil and Structural Engineering. During high school, he participated in Marching and Symphonic Bands, earned Academic Letters, and received awards for Innovation and Information Technology and Lions Club. He worked for Alpine Edge Engineering, LLC and the National Park Service (Curecanti National Recreation Area)




Parmida Mahdavi, another 2020 recipient, graduated Air Academy High School in Colorado Springs, CO with a 4.46 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado School of Mines in Golden, where she is studying Engineering Physics. In high school, she participated in the Swim and Dive Team, National Honor Society, and LINK Crew (a student leadership program).





Faith Meyer, another 2020 recipient, also from Montrose County, graduated from Montrose High School with a 3.44 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, where she is studying Occupational Therapy. During high school, she participated in Choir and Photography (with works displayed at a local gallery), and she interned at a pediatric occupational therapy clinic.





Tajanae Murphy, our fifth 2020 recipient, graduated from University Schools in Greeley, CO with a 4.06 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at University of Denver where she is studying Journalism and Communications. During high school, she participated in Student Counsel, Basketball, Volleyball, and Future Business Leaders of America.





Our 2019 Recipients

Angeline Alcarez, one of our five 2019 recipients, graduated from Montrose High School in Montrose, CO with a 4.0 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction where she is studying Nursing. During high school, she earned her Certified Nursing Assistant license, and she participated in Girls Swim/Dive Team, League of United Latin American Citizens, and National Honor Society. Angeline is an only child, raised by both parents, and she is the first in her family to attend college.

 

 


Nancy Coykendall,our 2019 Montrose County, Colorado recipient, graduated from Peak Virtual Academy in Montrose, CO with a 3.7 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at University of Northern Colorado in Greeley where she is studying Nursing. During high school, she interned with two doctors, in two hospitals and with the Northside Child Health Center. Additionally, she worked at Cold Stone Creamery and at Coffee Trader to help cover her expenses. Nancy is the eldest of three children and helped care for her younger siblings.

 

 


Emily Gyurman, another 2019 recipient, graduated from Eads High School in Eads, CO with a 4.0 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs where she is studying Pre-Medical Psychology. During high school she participated in Future Business Leaders of America, Future Farmers of America, Student Council, National Honor Society, Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field, Student Council and Knowledge Bowl. Emily, the eldest of two girls, was raised by both parents.

 

 


Phillip Hufman, another 2019 recipient, graduated from Dolores High School in Dolores, CO with a 3.9 GPA. He is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years while studying Forestry/Forest Operations at Humboldt State University in Arcata, CA; he is also running Cross Country for Humboldt State. During high school, he participated in Track & Field, Cross County, River Watch, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Basketball. Phillip, the eldest of two children, was raised by both parents.


 

 


Rhianna Patrick, our 2019 Geauga County, Ohio recipient, graduated from Kenston High School in Chagrin Falls with a 3.7 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Ohio University in Athens where she is studying Exercise Physiology/Pre-Physical Therapy. During high school, she participated in Track and Field (her 4x100 relay team placed 3rd in State in 2019), Bomberettes, and Spanish Club while working at CVS Pharmacy. Rhianna, the eldest of two children, was raised by her mother and grandmother.

 

 


Our 2019 Stipend/Special Scholarship Recipients:

DaeLeonDowns

Dae Leon Downs, graduated from the Vanguard School in Colorado Springs, CO with a 3.7 GPA. He is attending the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs to study Engineering Science; he received a one-time, $1,000 stipend. During high school, he participated in Chess Club and Latin Club while working at Fazoli’s Restaurant. Dae Leon is an only child, raised by a single mother.


 

 


Tu Par

Tu Par, graduated from South High School in Denver, CO with a 4.2 GPA. She is attending the University of Denver to study Business Management; she received a one-time, $1,000 stipend. During high school, she participated in Chemistry Club, Math Club, Chin Youth Organization, National Honor Society; she also taught Burmese and translated for the Chin community. Tu is the eldest of two children, raised by both parents.


 

 


Ashley Urratia

Ashley Urratia, graduated from Glenwood Spring High School in Glenwood Springs, CO with a 3.8 GPA. She is attending Colorado Mountain College in Glenwood Springs to study International Affairs; she received a one-time, $500 Special Scholarship. During high school, she participated in Key Club, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, and Book Club, and she interned with several legislators. Ashley lived with her older sister/guardian, and she worked at Fatbelly’s Burgers to help pay for the household expenses.

 

 


Our 2018 Recipients

Joris Alawoe, one of our four 2018 recipients, graduated from Cherry Creek High School in Greenwood Village, CO with 3.58 GPA. He is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at the University of Colorado, Boulder where he is studying journalism. In high school, he participated in African American Leadership Council, Peer Ambassadors and Youth Advisory Board. He is the eldest of two boys raised by single mother, and while homeless during his junior year, he did homework at McDonald’s for internet access. Joris was originally born in Togo and emigrated to the U.S. when he was four years old. He worked at Anthony’s Pizza and Pasta to help with family and school expenses.

 

 


Brindy WhiteBull-Delgado, another one of our 2018 recipients, graduated from North High School in Denver, CO with a 3.4 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado State University, Fort Collins where she is studying Biomedical Engineering. In high school, she participated in Drum Line, Concert and Marching Band, Student Council Varsity LaCrosse and Native American Student Alliance. She and her three siblings were raised by their grandmother. Brindy worked at Chipolte to help her grandmother with expenses and save money for college

 

 


Caleb Jones, our 2018 Montrose County, Colorado recipient, graduated from Paradox Valley High School in Paradox, CO with a 2.77 GPA. He is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at Tyler Junior College, Tyler, Texas where he is studying Music Technology. During high school, he participated in Student Council, Paradox Bluegrass Band (playing guitar and mandolin), and Basin Busy Beavers (4H), and he volunteered with the Colorado Riverwatch Program. Caleb is an only child, raised by both parents, and he worked at Ruth’s Toffee factory

 

 


Christina Becker, our 2018 Geauga County, Ohio recipient, graduated from West Geauga High School (where Kit attended) in Chesterland, OH with a 3.75 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at American University, Washington, DC where she is participating in their distinguished 3 year Public Health Scholars Program. During high school, she participated in Marching Band, Geauga County 4-H, and Girl Scouts, as well as volunteering at her church. Christina is the youngest of two, raised by both parents, and she worked at Winds of Change Farm.

 

 


Our 2018 Stipend Recipients:

Israel Moreno-Vargas, graduated from Early College of Arvada in Federal Heights, CO with a 3.3 GPA. He is attending the University of Colorado in Denver to study and received a one-time, $2,000 stipend. During high school, he participated in National Honor Society and helped refugees. He and his sister were raised by a single mother; his family emigrated from Mexico to escape violence and corruption.


 

 


Josie BiFano, graduated from Gunnison High School in Gunnison, CO with a 3.9 GPA. She is attending Northeastern Junior College to study Animal Science and received a one-time, $2,000 stipend. During high school, she participated in 4-H (showing goats and rabbits), Future Farmers of America, and National Honor Society. Josie became emancipated in her junior year, through no fault of her own, and she worked as a kennel tech for a pet care company to support herself.


 

 


Our 2017 Recipients

Iralynn Carmona, one of our four 2017 recipients, graduated from Greeley High School in Colorado with a 4.19 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at University of Colorado Boulder where she is studying Biochemistry. During high school, she participated in the International Baccalaureate Program, National Honor Society, theater, choir, and many sports, including volleyball, cross country, basketball, and track.





TreGarnett

Tré Garnett, another 2017 recipient, graduated from Rocky Mountain High School in Fort Collins, CO with a 3.74 GPA. He is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during his first two years at University of Oregon in Eugene where he is studying Psychology and Political Science. During high school, he was a Student Council Officer for two years, and participated in basketball, Science Olympiad, Science Bowl, and the Hugh O’ Brien Youth Leadership program.





CarlaHernandezChacon

Carla Hernandez Chacon, our 2017 Montrose County Colorado recipient, graduated from Olathe High School with a 4.17 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction where she is studying Computer Science and Biology. During high school, she participated in National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, and the Regional History Fair.





EmilyRichardson

Emily Richardson, our 2017 Geauga County Ohio recipient, graduated from Kenston High School with a 3.77 GPA. She is receiving a $10,000 scholarship during her first two years at University of Cincinnati where she is studying Early Childhood Education. During high school, she participated in Political Action Committee, business club and cross country (and served as captain). Emily is a published author in a national literary magazine.





Our 2017 Stipend/Special Scholarship Recipient:

KamariaHill

Karamaria Hill was the recipient of a one-time, $2,000 stipend from the Kit Faragher Foundation in 2017. Although not awarded a full-scholarship, the Selection Committee was impressed with her drive towards accomplishment and positive attitude. Kamaria is attending the University of Denver where she is studying Psychology.





Our 2016 Recipients

Julia Lombardo, one of our four 2016 recipients, graduated from Newbury High School with a 3.95 GPA. She is the second recipient of the Kit Faragher Foundation Geauga County, Ohio Scholarship. Kit was raised in Geauga County and attended high school there. Julia is receiving a $6,000 scholarship during her first two years at the University of Mount Union in Alliance, Ohio where she is studying Early Childhood and Special Education. In high school, she participated in NHS, Spanish Club, Stage Club and volleyball. She worked at Rescue Village and the Geauga YMCA to help pay for college.


 

 


Michelle Medina, another one of our 2016 recipients, graduated from Montrose High School in Colorado with a 3.1 GPA. She is receiving a $6,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, CO where she is studying Nursing; she plans to become a Nurse Anesthetist. During high school, she demonstrated her commitment to nursing by obtaining her Adult Nurse Assistant certification and interning at Montrose Memorial Hospital and a dental clinic. The Kit Faragher Foundation awards one Montrose County Scholarship per year, but Michelle and Rafael both impressed the selection committee and were selected as scholarship recipients for 2016.

 

 



Rafael Nieto, another one of our 2016 recipients, graduated from Olathe High School in Montrose County, CO with a 4.22 GPA. He is also receiving a $6,000 scholarship during his first two years at Colorado Mesa University where he is studying Biology; he plans to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist. During high school, he participated in many activities, including baseball, cross country, FBLA and Honor Society. Rafael worked at All Steel, Inc. and Alpine Masonry to help pay for college.

 

 



Victoria Klimuk, the fourth of our 2016 recipients, graduated from Pueblo East High School, CO with a 4.7 GPA. She is receiving a $6,000 scholarship during her first two years at the University of Colorado Boulder to study Chemistry; her goal is to become a Veterinarian. During high school, she participated in NHS, Speech and Debate, choir, swimming and tennis. She was raised by a single mom and created Victory Bees, an initiative to spread awareness about bees and their decline.

 

 



Skyler Shelton, one of our four 2015 recipients, graduated from Nucla High School in Montrose County, Colorado. She is the first recipient of the Kit Faragher Foundation's Montrose County Scholarship. This was established for a graduate of a Montrose County high school due to the generous support of the Montrose community. She is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction where she is studying Biological Sciences; after, she plans to attend Colorado State to her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Raised by a single mom, she took college courses, played volleyball and basketball, volunteered and worked during high school.

 

 


Martha Kibozi, Another of our 2015 recipients, graduated form Arrupe Jesuit High School in Denver, CO. She is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley where she is studying Biology: after, she plans to become a doctor so she can help the less fortunate. Martha, the second oldest of eight children, was born in the Republic of Congo and moved to the United States with her family in 2002 when a civil war broke out. During high school, Martha volunteered with many agencies, including the St. Francis Center and the Denver Catholic Workers Soup Kitchen.

 

 


Elmer Jasiel Sanchez-Diaz, another 2015 recipient, graduated from Boulder High School. He is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during his first two years at the University of Northern Colorado where he is studying English and Secondary Education; he plans to become a teacher. He is the oldest of three boys, and during high school he participated in the Haunted House, Panther Pride, Latino Leadership, and the AVID Thanksgiving Food Drive.

 

 



Lucas Fulop, our fourth 2015 recipient, graduated from Cardinal High School in Middlefield, OH. He is the first recipient of the Kit Faragher Foundation Geauga County Scholarship. Kit was raised in Geauga county, Ohio, and attended high school there. Lucas is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during his first two years at the University of Akron in Ohio where he is studying Corrosion Engineering. In high school, he volunteered. played baseball, made honor roll each year and never missed a day of high school.

 

 



Luis Vasquez, was the recipient of a one-time,$1,000 stipend from the Kit Faragher Foundation in 2015. Although not awarded a full-scholarship, the selection committee was impressed with his drive towards accomplishment and positive attitude. Luis is attending the University of Colorado Colorado Springs where he is studying Nursing.

 

 


Leda Ebert (Stinson), one of our three 2014 recipients, is from Delta, CO, and graduated from Vision Academy in Paonia. She is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at Luther College in Decorah, IA, where she is studying Environmental Studies. Leda, one of three kids raided by a single mother, participated in multiple band groups, including marching, jazz and concert, as well as cross country in high school. Her essay describes her passions of art, including music and dance, and nature, including backpacking and raising bees.

 

 


Javon Carter, another of our 2014 recipients, is from Denver, CO, and graduated from George Washington High School. He is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during his first two years at Colorado State University where he is studying Accounting. Javon, the oldest of three kids raised by a single mother, participated in football and Future Business Leaders of America in high school. His essay describes being homeless, and caring for his younger siblings including taking city buses to get them across town while his mom worked.

 

 


Arianna Delgadillo, the third of our 2014 recipients is form Henderson, CO, and graduated from Brighton Academy. She's receiving a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado State University where she is studying Psychology. (We figured out at the August 2014 scholarship awards dinner that she and Javon were in the same freshman dorm, same floor, just a few doors apart ...small world. Arianna is the oldest of four kids raised by a single mother, and her essay described how she overcame family issues to graduate high school and attend college. Arianna participated in Student Advisory Council and Stained Glass in high school, and she loves to cook.

 

 


Shelby Dunker Photo

Shelby Dunker, one of our two 2013 recipients, graduated from Akron High School with a 3.9 GPA.  She received a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at Chadron State College in Chadron, Nebraska where she is studying Criminal Justice.  Shelby, a determined, driven, young woman, has been self-sufficient since she was 16 years old.  During high school she worked to support herself, participated in Future Farmers of America, leadership conferences, and choir, while earning varsity letters in volleyball and basketball.       

 

 


Max Logan PhotoMax Logan, the other 2013 recipient, is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during his first two years at Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff where he obtained his Welding Certificate.He has continued his studies at Western Nebraska obtain his degree in Agricultural Business while working as a welder.  Max graduated with a 3.8 GPA from Karval High School where he was elected Student Council President and National Honor Society President, served as Captain of the Varsity Basketball Team, and participated in Future Farmers of America.  During high school, Max worked at local cattle ranches, as well as his family’s ranch.

 

 


Fallon Kelly Photo

Fallon Kelley, one of our two 2012 recipients, is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO.  She is now studying Biology and achieved a 3.2 GPA her first year.  Fallon graduated with a 3.1 GPA from Dolores High School where she served as Vice President of Student Government her senior year and President her junior year.  She also participated in drama club, High School Leadership Montezuma, and Knowledge Bowl, serving as team captain. Fallon has volunteered for the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service during summer break. 

 

 


Erica Maestas Photo

Erica Maestas, our other 2012 recipient, graduated from Montrose High School in May 2012 with a 3.9 GPA.  She is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO where she is studying Psychology.  She earned a 3.6 GPA her first semester, and studied in Costa Rica to help obtain her Spanish Minor.  Erica, the oldest of three children, received numerous awards for academics and leadership, while participating in Choir, musicals and drama club, and working part-time during high school.

 

 


Photo of Cody CastilloCody Castillo, our 2011 recipient, is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during his first two years while studying Range Management Science at Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, WY.  Cody is the eldest of three sons raised by a single mother in Burlington, CO.  During high school he participated in Future Farmers of America, Future Business Leaders of America, and 4H where he held numerous leadership positions, all while obtaining good grades and working over 20 hours per week.  In addition, Cody volunteered for numerous community organizations During summers, Cody worked in ranching.

 

 


Photo of  Tyler DellTyler Dell, our 2010 recipient, is receiving a $5,000 scholarship during his first two years while studying Civil Engineering at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Tyler is form Swink, CO where he participated in football, wrestling, baseball, track and student government. Tyler graduated Cum Laude from CSU with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Civil Engineering. Currently, he is working on a master's degree at CSU in Hydrologic Science and Engineering, while working as a Graduate Teaching Assistant.


 

 


Photo of Katie KwiatkoskiKatie Kwiatkoski, our 2009 recipient, was awarded a $5,000 scholarship during her first two years while studying Public Relations at Metropolitan  State College of Denver.  Katie, who was voted Optimist International Outstanding Student in high school, is exuberant, resourceful, and down-to-earth.  In addition to taking a full load of classes at Metro, Katie was published in the college newspaper and worked four days a week to help pay for college and living expenses.


 

 


Photo of Ariana McCalebAriana McCaleb, our 2008 recipient from Nederland, CO, received $5,000 during her first two years of college.  She co-founded and served as president of the Fencing Club at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs where she finished her first year of Nursing prerequisites with a 3.97 GPA.  In August 2009, Ms. McCaleb transferred to the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO, where she excelled in her studies. She graduated from UNC with her Nursing degree i the Spring of 2012, Summa Cum Laude.


 

 


Giselle Diaz, who received a $1,000 stipend in 2008, completed her Licensed Practical Nurse program at Pickens Technical College in Denver.  She worked in a nursing home where “just making the residents smile makes my day.”

 

 


Photo of Jason AmadorJason Amador, our 2007 recipient from Commerce City, CO is an enthusiastic athlete who participated in football, wrestling and track, while on the honor roll through all four years of high school.  He was raised by a single mother to whom he is dedicated and plans to care for in the future.  Mr. Amador attends Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO, and is finishing his degree in Engineering.


 

 


 

Qi 'Heidi' Zhang, our 2006 recipient from Longmont, received $4,000 for her first two years at the University of Colorado at Boulder.  Ms. Zhang, who immigrated to Boulder County from China, excelled in and graduated from the Chemical Engineering program at CU.  During college, she made new friends, and adapted well to her new culture.  In her essay, Ms. Zhang wrote, "I would like my star to shine as brightly as that of Kit Faragher. I would love its radiance to reflect, not only my passion for life, but also to continue to reflect the legacy of this special woman, and keep her light shining brightly."

 

 


Photo of Colin HickeyColin Hickey, our 2005 recipient from Nederland is an athlete and outdoors man, the youngest of three sons raised by a widowed mother.  He received $4,000 for his first two years at the University of Colorado at Boulder.  Mr. Hickey graduated from CU in May 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and a Certificate in Peace and Conflict Studies.  Currently, he is working on his PhD in Philosophy at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.  Mr. Hickey wrote, “The Kit Faragher Foundation scholarship proved instrumental in my college career and, hence, personal development. Through the scholarship, I was able to flourish intellectually, socially, and personally in a university setting.”

 

 


Photo of Elizabeth RoweElizabeth Rowe, our 2004 recipient, is an enthusiastic and hard-working young woman raised by a single mother from Idaho Springs.  She received $2,500 during her first year at Metropolitan State College of Denver.  During her scholarship interview, Ms. Rowe spoke about achieving her dreams and having her “castle.”  She describes herself as “getting closer and closer to my castle every day.”  Recently, Ms. Rowe has contributed financially to the Kit Faragher Foundation, to help future deserving students attend college.


 

 


Photo of Brandon GarinerBrandon Gariner, our 2003 Kit Faragher Memorial Scholarship recipient loves sports and animals, and is the youngest of three sons. He received $5,000 for his two-year program at Lamar Community College in Lamar, Colorado. Mr. Gariner graduated from Lamar Community College in May 2006.  He then attended Fort Hays State University in Fort Hays, Kansas and was selected for an elite leadership class.  Mr. Gariner's mother wrote, "Brandon has a very bright future, all because of Kit's tragic death, and the good you were able to bring out of it." Mr. Gariner, without the Kit Faragher Memorial Scholarship, would not have attended college.