RENO, Nev. 12-year old Jessenia Lopez, a sixth grade student at Palmer Elementary, is the November 2013 winner of the Class Act Award. Jessenia was selected by United Federal Credit Union (UFCU) and KRNV News 4. UFCU, a primary sponsor, helps to ensure that each recipient receives deserved recognition throughout the Reno/Sparks community.
Each month, the Class Act Award recognizes one student from the Washoe County School District (WCSD) and his or her individual achievements. The student is nominated by a WCSD teacher and members of the community. Winners receive a $529 check for the students college savings as part of the Nevada College 529 Plan, and four tickets to a Reno Aces baseball game.
"Bright, sweet, and a positive student," is how Jessenia is described by Principal Jason Childs and Assistant Principal Mary Stach of Palmer Elementary School. "Jessenia works extremely hard and leads by example both in and out of the classroom," said Childs.
Though humble about winning the award, Jessenias upbeat disposition and self-motivation make her a natural leader. "One day, she hopes to be a doctor," continued Childs.
Jessenia is community-oriented and places the needs of others above her own. She is also an excellent student, receiving straight As, and is active both in and outside of school. She is a cheerleader, sings in the choir, and committed to her church, often helping to serve communion on Sundays. Childs also said that Jessenia is an excellent "big sister" who works hard in setting a great example at home.
UFCU Business Development Manager Kellie George has served on the Class Act Selection Committee since 2004. Each month, the committee reviews applications and the unique contributions made by each student.
"Weve seen the heart Jessenia puts forth in her work inside the classroom," commented George. "Its admirable for anyone at any age, but especially encouraging for someone so young."
George is always impressed by the story behind each winner. "Class Act is an excellent way for us in the Reno/Sparks area to honor these phenomenal students. Its a testament to the exemplary education these kids receive." UFCU has served the WSCD since 1949 and provides financial services to more than 7,000 families in the district.
Jessenia was recently presented with the award by KRNV News 4. "She enjoys school, working hard and being there for her peers," concluded George. "Those are our values at UFCU, and its up to us to foster it within our children as well."
With 21 branches nationwide, UFCU serves communities, teachers, and students throughout the U.S.
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About UFCU
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. UFCU consists of more than 120,000 Member/owners worldwide, and manages assets in excess of $1.57 billion. Its corporate offices and main branch are located in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, and Ohio. UFCU has been named the
Michigan Credit Union League Outstanding Credit Union of the Year 2013. UFCU has also been named
the National Federal Credit Union of the Year 2013 by the National Association of Federal Credit Unions.
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About Class Act
Class Act is a program designed to acknowledge outstanding WCSD students ages Kindergarten through High School who not only excel in academics, but are positive role models at school, at home, or in their community. The partners for Class Act are KRNV News 4, UFCU, the state of Nevada, and the Reno Aces baseball team. Monthly recipients are honored at either a school assembly or classroom visit, hosted by News 4 anchor Shelby Sheehan. News coverage of the assembly and students positive contributions airs on News 4. Deserving students can be nominated by emailing
krnvclassact@mynews4.com.
