Magnifi Financial, a credit union committed to supporting individuals and communities in reaching their financial goals, is proud to announce the winners of its 2026 Scholarship Program.
This year, we awarded $20,000 in scholarships to 20 outstanding members, each receiving $1,000 to support their higher education during the 2026–2027 academic year.
This annual initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting members at every stage of their educational journey. Over the past 26 years, Magnifi Financial has awarded more than $336,500 in scholarships, reinforcing our dedication to strengthening our communities and helping empower the next generation of leaders.
Recipients were selected based on their thoughtful and original responses to this year’s essay prompt:
"Reflecting on your personal journey with money and financial education, what key experiences or lessons have shaped your perspective on financial success? In what ways will you apply this knowledge to achieve independence, make thoughtful financial decisions, and inspire others as you pursue your educational and career goals?"
All submissions were reviewed and evaluated by a panel of judges from Kaleidoscope, a trusted third-party organization specializing in scholarship administration, ensuring a fair and impartial selection process.
The following members have been selected to receive the $1,000 scholarship:
-
Oliver Berckes – Alexandrea Technical and Community College
-
Marin Buermann – Rochester Community and Technical College
-
Paul Dorr – Benedictine College
-
Jaden Ebnet – North Dakota State University
-
Bryce Frericks – North Dakota State College of Science
-
Nicole Hess – University of Minnesota – Duluth
-
Rishabh Jain – Indiana University
-
Grant Kiley – St. Cloud State University
-
Carden LaBine – St. John’s University
-
Claire Lecy – Augustana University
-
Ava Grace Mader – Mankato State University
-
Katelyn Mareck – College of Saint Benedicts
-
Abigail Mohs – University of Mary
-
Madalyn Notch – St. Cloud Technical and Community College
-
Olivia Rosenthal – North Dakota State University
-
Hailey Shay – Winona State University
-
Kendra Vossen – Mankato State University
-
Loriana Walter – North Dakota State University
-
Madelyn Wehrspann – Central Lakes College
-
Madison Winkels – Minnesota State University Moorhead
Looking Ahead:
The 2027 Scholarship Program application period will open in December 2026. For more information on eligibility and application procedures, please visit mymagnifi.org/scholarship
About Magnifi Financial:
Magnifi Financial is a not-for-profit credit union serving over 85,000 members across Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. With a strong commitment to community involvement, Magnifi Financial offers a range of financial services designed to meet the needs of its diverse membership. Through initiatives like the 3 Essentials program and the Magnifi Financial Foundation, the credit union actively contributes to the well-being and development of the communities it serves.
