Desert Financial Gives $725,000 to Arizona Education in 2022

PHOENIX (Originally published November 9, 2022) – Desert Financial Credit Union and Desert Financial Foundation have given more than $725,000 to various Arizona educational programs and scholarships since the beginning of 2022. 

The credit union provided more than $457,000 to teacher appreciation events and grants, which includes serving as the title sponsor of the 2023 Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards hosted by Arizona Education Foundation. The annual event, which was held on Saturday, Oct. 15, celebrates the highest honor bestowed upon public school teachers in Arizona. This was the third year in a row Desert Financial served as title sponsor. 

Separately, Desert Financial Foundation has given nearly $270,000 in student scholarships this year. These scholarship programs support graduating high school seniors who give back in their community, adult learners pursuing their educational goals, and student-athletes who have overcome adversity. 

"One truism embedded in our culture is: strong communities are built upon good education," said Desert Financial CEO Jeff Meshey. "Our continued support and involvement with Arizona education is a major source of pride for our organization. Whether it’s a grassroots teacher appreciation event or sponsoring the Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards, celebrating Arizona's educators means the world to us."