ALAMOSA — San Luis Valley Federal Bank, the oldest banking company headquartered in the Valley, made an investment in the future this week in awarding a scholarship to Anikah Roybal, a graduating student of Sierra Grande High School.

In a ceremony held at the bank on Wednesday, Joe Martinez, president of the bank, presented Roybal with a $1,000 check, which Roybal will use to attend Regis College in the fall where she plans to study nursing.

At the request of the Valley Courier, Roybal’s application was made available, and it reflected a student who already embodies the word “outstanding.”

In addition to dual enrollment at Trinidad State College and Adams State University where she obtained college credit while enrolled in high school, Roybal found time to be a member of student council, a cheerleader (for six years), a teacher assistant, the basketball statistician, participate in Knowledge Bowl, the Spanish Club, the Art Club, 4-H and tutor in Math and English.

She was named “Outstanding Student” in more than seven subject areas and also placed two years in a row at the Region 2 Environmental Science Fairs. While in high school, Roybal also made time to volunteer for a total of more than 500 hours at school, church and community activities, including several that were devoted to veterans.

"This scholarship will help me work toward my dream of becoming a labor and delivery nurse,” Roybal said. “I'm looking forward to college because it’s going to be a unique experience for me where I can experience new and exciting things. This award means I’m able to make that dream a reality."

“Community banks are all about our community,” Martinez said. “And that means investing in our next generation. I was honored to present Anikah with this check. She’s an extraordinary student and we hope this will spur her onward in her next journey.”

San Luis Valley Federal Bank is a member of Independent Community Bankers of Colorado (ICBC). Each year, ICBC awards five scholarships to local students across the state to support their educational journey. As an organization, ICBC represents community banks throughout Colorado and promotes their members’ local impact.

“These scholarships are just one of the many ways our members invest in their local areas. Community banks are involved in local chambers, 4-H programs, and a variety of other local non-profits. Community bankers are our neighbors, fellow members at church, and they know the importance of relationships and have a pulse on what their communities need,” said Mike Van Norstrand, Executive Director of ICBC. “We are excited to see how these scholarships will impact each of the students in their future endeavors.”