Arizona's Community Service Scholarship Program

Scholarship Sponsored by Desert Schools Federal Credit Union

Overview The Arizona Breaking Barriers Student Athlete Scholarship honors Arizona high school seniors graduating in spring 2026 who demonstrate perseverance and leadership both in athletics and in life. Eligibility (must meet all) - Be an Arizona high school senior graduating in spring 2026. - Currently participate on an organized sports team (examples: high school team, local public or private club, recreational league, or other formal program). - Hold a cumulative weighted GPA of 3.00 or above. - Intend to enroll at an Arizona college or university in the fall following graduation. - Provide a current unofficial high school transcript if requested. - Demonstrate financial need as indicated by the Student Aid Index (SAI) from the FAFSA. - Desert Financial Credit Union membership is not required. Scholarship Awards - Fifteen (15) students will each receive a $3,000 scholarship, selected by the Scholarship Review Committee. - Of the 15 recipients: - Two will be named Krysten Muir Scholars, selected by Krysten Muir and presented by the Arizona Cardinals. - Two will be named Unstoppable Scholars, chosen by Anthony Robles and presented by Anthony Robles. - One will be named the Girls Flag Football Scholar, presented by the Arizona Cardinals. Girls Flag Football Scholar selection rule - If at least one girls flag football player ranks among the top 15 scorers, the highest-scoring girls flag football athlete among them will be designated the Girls Flag Football Scholar. - If none of the initial top 15 are girls flag football players, the lowest-ranked finalist from the initial group will be replaced by the highest-scoring girls flag football applicant, who will then receive the Girls Flag Football Scholar distinction. - This policy ensures support for athletes in emerging sports such as girls flag football across Arizona. Nomination and Application Process - Nominations may be submitted by the student (self-nomination) or by another person on the student’s behalf. When nominating, be prepared to clearly explain why the student qualifies and to describe examples of resiliency and barrier-breaking. - Before beginning the online form, review the Nomination Checklist and gather all required information. The nomination form cannot be saved and returned to later — you must complete it in one session. - If a nominee advances in the selection process, the student will receive an email from foundation@desertfinancial.com requesting additional materials, which may include an unofficial transcript and confirmation that the student wishes to remain under consideration. Important deadlines and reminders - All nomination/applications must be submitted by November 14, 2025. - Gather all necessary documents and information before you start — incomplete or partially filled forms cannot be saved. - Selected applicants will be contacted by email regarding next steps. Waiver of Liability / Publicity Release By submitting an application or nomination, you grant Desert Financial the right to use your name, image, voice, statements and other likenesses and information for advertising, promotional, trade or other purposes in any media now known or later developed, worldwide and in perpetuity, without additional compensation, permission or notification, unless prohibited by law. Selection steps (summary) 1. Complete and submit the nomination/application in one sitting. 2. Desert Financial Foundation reviews submissions. 3. If chosen to receive a scholarship, you will be notified by email. About the scholarships’ inspiration - Krysten Muir: As a kicker for Marcos de Niza High School (2015–2016), Krysten became the first female to score in an AIA state championship game and set the state single-season scoring record for a woman. After a car accident in January 2021 that resulted in partial paralysis, Krysten has continued to work toward her goals and exemplify resilience. Two recipients will be selected by Krysten as Krysten Muir Scholars. - Anthony Robles: An accomplished Arizona State University wrestler, Anthony won the NCAA individual championship in 2011 and completed his collegiate career with a 36–0 season. Born with one leg, he has become a motivational speaker and commentator. His autobiography, Unstoppable, inspired a film starring Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez that premiered on Amazon Prime in 2025. Two recipients will be chosen by Anthony as Unstoppable Scholars. - Girls flag football: Players in this sport challenge stereotypes and expand opportunities for female athletes. The Arizona Cardinals support the growth of girls flag football by broadcasting games, donating equipment, running camps and presenting the Girls Flag Football Scholar award. Make a nomination or apply Nominate a student-athlete who breaks barriers — or submit your own nomination — by completing the online application before November 14, 2025. A single application can create a lasting impact for a deserving Arizona student-athlete.