Caps off to our 2021 John Aman Memorial Scholarship Recipients
July 1, 2021
5 high school seniors chosen based on their community involvement and academics.
We are pleased to announce the 2021 John Aman Memorial Scholarship recipients. These five area high school seniors each received a $2,000 scholarship for their excellent service in the community and exceptional academics.
“The John Aman Memorial Scholarship allows Unison Credit Union the opportunity to recognize local students that embody the credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people,’” said Mark Hietpas, Unison Credit Union president and CEO. “It is with great privilege to award these five individuals this scholarship, as each one has gone above and beyond for their community and showcased leadership amongst their classmates.”
The 2021 John Aman Memorial Scholarship recipients include:
Kyle Verhagen, Kaukauna High School
Mr. Kyle Verhagen devoted over 60 hours to volunteerism for Haen’s school to build a new playground set for them. He also contributed to building another playground set for Dr. H.B.Tanner Elementary school. Aside from volunteering, Kyle was involved with the basketball team for all 4 years of high school and received an Academic Basketball Excellence Award. He also spent time helping at Blood Drives with the National Honor’s Society and contributing to community clean ups. He will be pursuing a major in Business/Finance at the University of Wisconsin, La-Crosse.
Lydia McMorrow, West De Pere High School
Ms. Lydia McMorrow was a leader amongst her classmates by being her class Vice President for 2 years, and Class President for 2 years. She received the Ambassador National Community Service award in 2020 and was involved with FCCLA and FBLA. She was a part of the West De Pere Dance Team and the Track & Field team for all four years of high school. Lydia spent numerous hours volunteering with the Golden House, Freedom House, Next Steps Ministries, City of De Pere Board of Park Commissioners and the Special Olympics. Lydia plans to attend the University of Wisconsin, Madison to study Nursing.
Madigan Statz, Kimberly High School
Ms. Madigan Statz participated in cross country, track & field and volleyball, earning a Papermaker award in cross country where she demonstrated leadership and showcased hard-working qualities. She played an active role in a handful of clubs, those being Key Club, Life Force, National Honor Society and Young Women in the Community. She plans to attend the University of Wisconsin, La-Crosse to obtain a bachelor’s degree, majoring in Biochemistry.
Jack Van Zeeland, Wrightstown High School
Mr. Jack Van Zeeland was awarded captain of the basketball team his senior and was awarded Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 that led his team to a regional and conference championship win in 2021. Jack participated in the National Honor’s Society, FBLA, Treasurer for Class Officers and an active member in Youth Group. He plans to attend the University of Wisconsin, Madison to pursue a major in Business: Operations and Technology Management.
Brecken Thomas, Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Mr. Brecken Thomas was a competitive athlete in football and basketball, where he was captain for both sports his senior year. He was involved in the FBLA group where he served as Vice president and played an active role in the National Honor Society. He enjoyed being a part of the Youth Basketball Program where he helped 3rd-8th graders improve their basketball skills while having fun. Brecken enjoyed volunteering with the Santa Celebration where he was paired with a child with disabilities and spent time together wrapping gifts, making cookies and meeting Santa. He plans to attend The University of St. Thomas in Minnesota to study Business.
Unison awards this scholarship annually in honor of John Aman, their first CEO, who was hired in 1970. Aman is remembered for his commitment to the credit union industry as well as serving the community.