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Congratulations to Hannah Rockwell, Ellie Secor, and Grady Gaudet on being selected as GPO Federal Credit Union's 2026 scholarship recipients. This recognition reflects their hard work, leadership, academic achievements, and commitment to their communities.

Each year, GPO Federal Credit Union participates in the New York Credit Union Association Scholarship Program, providing graduating high school seniors with an opportunity to earn scholarship funding to support their educational goals. Students who apply through GPO are automatically considered not only for GPO's local scholarship awards, but also for scholarship opportunities through the Utica-Rome Credit Union Chapter and New York State levels.

This year, all three of GPO's scholarship recipients were also selected as scholarship winners by the Utica-Rome Credit Union Chapter, earning recognition at both the local credit union and chapter levels. The scholarships can be used toward tuition, room and board, books, and other educational expenses.

"Supporting local students as they pursue higher education is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our communities," said GPO CEO Nick Mayhew. "We're proud to recognize Hannah, Ellie, and Grady for everything they've accomplished and are excited to see where their futures take them."

Students were evaluated based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership, community engagement, and written application submissions.

Meet the Winners

Hannah Rockwell

GPO Awarded: $1,500 Scholarship

Utica-Rome Credit Union Chapter Awarded: $500 Scholarship

Hannah, a graduate of Dolgeville High School, will be attending the University at Buffalo in the fall, where she plans to major in Health Sciences and pursue a career in Occupational Therapy.

Her accomplishments and interests include:

• Class of 2026 President
• Salutatorian of Dolgeville High School's Class of 2026
• Enjoys drawing, painting, and spending time outdoors

Ellie Secor

GPO Awarded: $1,000 Scholarship

Utica-Rome Credit Union Chapter Awarded: $400 Scholarship

Ellie will be attending The University at Albany in the fall, where she plans to major in Nanoscale Science and pursue a career in research.

Her accomplishments and interests include:

• Valedictorian of Remsen High School
• Enjoys playing the flute, golfing, reading, and exploring science-related topics
• Demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence and scientific discovery throughout her high school career

Grady Gaudet

GPO Awarded: $500 Scholarship

Utica-Rome Credit Union Chapter Awarded: $300 Scholarship

Grady will be attending Le Moyne College in the fall, where he plans to major in Biology/Physician Assistant Studies and pursue a career in the medical field.

His accomplishments and interests include:

• Earned a place on the Principal's List every marking period throughout high school
• Three-time Scholar Athlete Award recipient
• NYSPHSAA Section III Class C Champion in the 100 Freestyle, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Medley Relay, and 200 Freestyle Relay
• Served as the Oneida Board of Education Ex-Officio Student Representative
• Enjoys soccer, baseball, swimming, fishing, hunting, kayaking, hiking, and playing the piano

At GPO Federal Credit Union, we believe investing in students means investing in the future of our communities. We are proud to support Hannah, Ellie, and Grady as they take the next step in their educational journeys and pursue their goals.

Congratulations again to our 2026 scholarship recipients. We wish you continued success in college and beyond.