Louisiana Federal Credit Union is excited to announce the recipients of its 2024 Ronald E. Thomas Memorial Scholarship.Six graduating seniors in southeast Louisiana were chosen by the credit union to receive $2,000 each. The scholarship, named for the late Ronald E. Thomas, who served as a Louisiana FCU board member for more than 65 years, recognizes graduating high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding leadership and altruism in the community.

The scholarship honors the late Ronald E. Thomas for his local and national contributions to the credit union movement.

Gracie Poche, an aspiring nursing student, expressed her gratitude for receiving the scholarship: "I know nursing school will require a lot of study time, so any help I can get is appreciated. It feels great to know I have something to help toward my school." Her sentiments highlight the crucial role scholarships play in enabling students to pursue their educational goals.

Melissa Matherne, Chief Financial Officer at Louisiana FCU, reminds students, “College expenses can be daunting, but earning the Ronald E. Thomas scholarship will go very far in helping students get through those college costs. Not only can these be used to cover tuition, but also so many other expenses that a student will be responsible for such as books, laptops, fees, and other living expenses. This can be truly beneficial to any student pursuing their dreams.”

Nolan Hampton, a 2024 R.E.T. Memorial scholar who will be attending Loyola University New Orleans to study Philosophy with a concentration in Pre-Law, expressed his gratitude: "Thank you for the decision that you made – you never know how decisions you make can have a positive change on other people's lives. I was glad that I was chosen."

Meet the 2024 Ronald E. Thomas Memorial Scholarship Recipients

Nolan Hampton, a graduate of Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, founded the Students Against Trafficking (SAT) Chapter during his junior year. Nolan advocates for situational awareness to prevent human trafficking and is proud of his contributions to societal well-being. He balances a part-time job with a disciplined savings plan, saving 65% of his earnings. In five years, Nolan envisions pursuing a Juris Doctorate Degree from a top 10 ABA-approved law school, advocating for justice in marginalized communities, and collaborating with social programs like the NAACP and Clean Water Initiatives.

Ellie Landry, a graduate of E.D. White Catholic High School, maintained a 4.0 GPA while excelling in honors and AP classes. A varsity volleyball and softball player, Ellie balances academics, athletics, and a healthy lifestyle. She has saved $7,000 from teaching swimming lessons and coaching volleyball. She is active in her serving her community, which includes assisting in food drives and monthly visits to a local elderly care facility, where she and her teammates bring joy to the residents.

Gracie Poche, a graduate of Lutcher High School, prioritizes her faith amidst a demanding schedule, never missing Mass and starting each day with Bible reading. She proactively prepares for her future by seeking scholarships, financial aid, and part-time employment, and has opened a savings account to help pay for college. In five years, Gracie aims to be a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), leveraging her 30 hours of dual enrollment credit to accelerate her education. 

Addi Remondet, a graduate of Riverside Academy in St. John the Baptist Parish, is proud of earning All American at UCA cheer camp. In five years, Addi envisions herself as a labor and delivery nurse, balancing her career with supportive relationships and financial stability. Her community service endeavors include delivering Thanksgiving meals and Easter baskets to those in need.

Brianne Robichaux, a graduate of Destrehan High School in St. Charles Parish, led her dance team, the Destrehan Desty Darlings, to three top-five finishes at the 2024 Universal Dance Association National Championship. A member of Louisiana Federal Credit Union, Brianne is familiar with money management. She plans to study occupational therapy, focusing on early childhood intervention. In five years, Brianne hopes to be in graduate school earning her Doctor of Occupational Therapy, while teaching dance to children. Her 80 service hours with Caring Strategies have deepened her passion for helping special needs children.

Josh Thibodeaux, a graduate of Dutchtown High School, earned a spot on the varsity soccer team and became captain, helping his team reach the State Championship twice. He saves money from birthdays, holidays, and part-time work, budgeting and refraining from unnecessary purchases. In five years, Josh sees himself starting medical school, building meaningful relationships, and achieving his goal of becoming a doctor.