CUs in the News

Scholarship awards from Huron Area Education Federal Credit Union and First Community Credit Union, plus the promotion of Rianne Kuhn at Aspire Credit Union.

CUs in the News is a spotlight series celebrating the incredible work happening across our Dakota credit unions. From standout promotions and community giveback efforts to innovative programs and member-focused initiatives, this series will showcase how our credit unions live out the “people helping people” philosophy each and every day.

​Huron Area Education Federal Credit Union Awards Scholarships
The Huron Area Education Federal Credit Union Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce their scholarship recipients for the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year. After reviewing applications that highlighted involvement in school, community, and credit union activities, we are proud to recognize Jonah Beck, Carter Boetel, Maddie Jurgens, Mason Jurgens, Jeron McCreary, Adalyn Tesch and Riley Winegar. Congratulations to these exceptional students on their achievements! 

Top row: Jonah Beck and Carter Boetel Middle row: Maddie Jurgens, Mason Jurgens, and Jeron McCreary Bottom row: Adalyn Tesch and Riley Winegar

​​FCCU Awards Record $72,000 in Scholarships
First Community Credit Union (FCCU) recently announced a record $72,500 in scholarships awarded to 28 graduating high school seniors through its 2026 Scholarship Foundation Program.
 
FCCU and its Board of Directors awarded 14 multi-year scholarships to Lillian Dybing of Fargo, Ellie Horner of Bismarck, Hallie Besette of Tower City, Bentley Solem of Bismarck, Kyla Moen of Larimore, Olivia Koehler of Hankinson, McKinley Moen of Larimore, Emily Senger of Rolla, Corbyn Powell of Valley City, Isabelle Morowski of Portland, William Klawitter of Euclid, Eva Weigel of Napoleon, Rainielle Briones of Devils Lake, and Helen Nelson of Halstad.
 
In addition, 14 students received single-year $1,250 scholarships, including Malory Kemp of Cavalier, Lily Grafstrom of Moorhead, Jacey Brynjulson of Grand Forks, Matthew Holm of Valley City, Elizabeth Pinke of Northwood, Brynn Sorenson of Buchanan, Maddox Cline of Oakes, Ashley Haas of Leonard, Hudson Zerface of Hope, Cheyenne Bowen of Adrian, Brooke Grzadzielewski of Grand Forks, Lilia Rexin of West Fargo, Camden Wiest of Wishek, and Allison Throlson of Bismarck. FCCU also recognized Ameen Salih of Moorhead as the winner of the program’s best essay award, receiving a $250 Visa gift card.
 
“FCCU would like to extend our congratulations to the 28 winners of the 2026 First Community Credit Union Scholarship Foundation Program,” said Steve Schmitz, CEO of FCCU. “We are proud to award a record $72,500 in scholarships this year and continue supporting the educational goals of our members.”

​Aspire Credit Union Announces Promotion of Rianne Kuhn to Marketing and Community Impact Director
Aspire Credit Union is proud to announce the promotion of Rianne Kuhn to Marketing and Community Impact Director. Rianne will continue to lead Aspire’s marketing strategy, oversee brand development and communications, and strengthen Aspire’s presence within the communities they serve. Rianne has been a dedicated member of the Aspire team for five years. “Rianne’s enthusiasm for marketing and commitment to outstanding member service make her an incredible asset to Aspire Credit Union,” said Kevin Vigested, president and CEO of Aspire Credit Union. “Her leadership will play an important role in enhancing member engagement and expanding our overall impact.” 

Huron Area Education Federal Credit Union
The Huron Area Education Federal Credit Union was formed in 1952 by a group of educators looking to provide a better financial option for their co-workers. In doing so they created a financial institution that understands the needs of educators, a philosophy still holds true today. 

First Community Credit Union
During its 86-year history, First Community Credit Union has grown to be North Dakota’s largest Credit Union serving 23 communities. As a credit union, FCCU is owned by its members. This is different than other financial institutions which are owned by a select group of stockholders. The Credit Union's profits are returned to the members in the form of better services, accounts, and favorable rates on savings and loans.

Aspire Credit Union
Aspire Credit Union has proudly served the Minot area communities for over 88 years. As a non-profit and member-owned financial institution, its goal is to provide the best possible service, products, and rates to meet the unique needs of its members. Serving several counties in North Dakota, including Bottineau, McHenry, McLean, Mountrail, Renville, and Ward, Aspire Credit Union is committed to the well-being of its community. Plus, with federal insurance by NCUA, you can trust that your money is in good hands. 

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