Celebrating Our Future Trailblazers
At Ellafi Federal Credit Union, we believe in dreams—especially the kind that come from dedication, resilience, and a desire to lift up others. That’s why each year, we’re honored to award three standout high school seniors with $1,000 scholarships to support their next big chapter in education and life. This year’s recipients are more than scholars—they’re leaders, changemakers, and visionaries.
Let’s meet the incredible Class of 2025 Ellafi Scholarship winners!
The Ella Scholarship
Scarlett D. – Empowering Change Through Action
Scarlett isn’t just graduating from Coginchaug Regional High School—she’s graduating with purpose. With a passion for empowering women through leadership, advocacy, and athletics, Scarlett has been a force for good in her community, championing organizations that uplift women and girls.
Next stop? The University of Connecticut, where she’ll major in Environmental Engineering and minor in Political Science. Her dream? Becoming a government policy analyst to shape the future through smarter, more inclusive policies. We have no doubt she’ll make waves wherever she goes.
The Seasons FCU Community Scholarship
James A. – Leading with Heart and Hustle
From the halls of Xavier High School to the wider community of Clinton, James Aronson has left a mark of kindness, leadership, and drive. Whether he’s excelling in the classroom, giving back through service, or making a difference with his extracurriculars, James shows us what it means to be a well-rounded and community-focused student.
This fall, he’s off to Bryant University to major in Leadership & Innovation Management. We can already picture James sparking change, inspiring others, and maybe even running his own socially responsible startup someday.
The Jean Crook Memorial Scholarship
Mikaela F. – Resilience in Motion
Mikaela’s journey hasn’t been easy—but it’s been powerful. Her strength and character shine through every step she’s taken, shaped by personal challenges that never defined her, only strengthened her.
A proud Middletown High School graduate, Mikaela is heading to the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, where she’ll study Health Sciences with a concentration in Occupational Therapy. Her goal? Helping others find their strength too. We’re honored to be part of her path forward.
A Brighter Tomorrow, Thanks to All Who Applied
To all the incredible students who applied—thank you. Your stories moved us. Your goals inspired us. And your futures? They are full of promise. Whether or not your name appeared above, we want you to know: your ambition and heart are what make our community thrive.
So dream boldly. Work hard. Be kind. And keep moving forward.
The future isn’t just ahead—it’s yours to create.
✨ Congratulations again to Scarlett, James, and Mikaela. We can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll do.