July 22, 2026 - For Immediate Release
Albuquerque, N.M. – Nusenda Credit Union’s philanthropic arm, the Nusenda Foundation, recently announced its 2026 Financial Education Innovation Award winners, recognizing outstanding educators, nonprofit organizations, and post-secondary students who are advancing financial wellness in classrooms and their communities. These awards reflect Nusenda’s ongoing commitment to empowering individuals and families with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve financial well-being.
“We believe that financial wellness doesn’t happen in isolation, but instead grows through the influence of educators, community leaders, and peers,” said Sara Keller, Nusenda’s Chief Community Engagement Officer and Executive Director of Nusenda Foundation. “This year’s recipients are creating impact every day, whether it’s guiding families toward financial stability, creating opportunities for future success, or setting an example that encourages others to make their own smart financial decisions.
This year, Nusenda awarded a total of $49,000 across three categories:
- Student Awards: 14 students each received $1,000 scholarships
- Organization Awards: Three organizations were each awarded $10,000 grants
- Educator Award: One classroom teacher received a $5,000 grant
2026 Organization Award Winners
NMCAN, Albuquerque - NMCAN's Opportunity Passport Program supports young people as they transition to adulthood by providing financial education, matched savings opportunities, and resources that help participants achieve goals related to education, housing, transportation, and career development.
Homewise, Santa Fe - Homewise empowers individuals and families through comprehensive financial education and homeownership preparation. Its programs help participants strengthen financial capability, improve credit readiness, and successfully navigate the homebuying process.
Pioneers 21, El Paso - Pioneers 21's Venture Mentoring Service Program provides mentorship, entrepreneurial guidance, and financial education to aspiring innovators and business leaders. The program equips participants with the tools necessary to make informed financial decisions while developing sustainable ventures.
2026 Educator Award Winner: Misty Ferguson, Alamogordo High School
Misty Ferguson is being recognized for her commitment to preparing students with the financial knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate real-world financial decisions. Through innovative classroom instruction and hands-on learning opportunities, she helps students build a strong foundation in budgeting, saving, responsible credit use, and long-term financial planning.
2026 Student Award Winners
14 second‑year post‑secondary students each received $1,000 scholarships for demonstrating a strong personal commitment to financial well‑being and serving as role models in their homes and communities.
Student recipients represent institutions and communities across the region, including:
- Albuquerque, N.M.
- Los Lunas, N.M.
- Las Cruces, N.M.
- Deming, N.M.
- El Paso, Texas
Each student exemplified how individual dedication to financial responsibility can ripple outward, inspiring families and communities to build brighter financial futures.
Congratulations to this year’s recipients! For more information and to find out when next year’s applications are open, visit our Nusenda Foundation webpage.
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About Nusenda Credit Union
Nusenda Credit Union is New Mexico’s largest locally owned and operated credit union with over 290,000 members and more than 900 employees. It has more than 30 branches throughout New Mexico and West Texas, serving the communities of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Taos, Valencia County, Socorro, Deming, Las Cruces, and El Paso. There are hundreds of ways to join the credit union. Connect with Nusenda Credit Union at www.nusenda.org; Facebook @NusendaCU; X @NusendaCU; and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nusenda-credit-union.
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About Nusenda Foundation
The Nusenda Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 2015 to support and expand the credit union’s philanthropic efforts and community outreach. The foundation aims to enhance the education, health, social and economic conditions of the communities our members live in. Through holistic and comprehensive partnerships with organizations across the state, we work together to champion programs that are carefully cultivated to authentically serve our unique and diverse population and the challenges they face. Learn more: Nusenda Foundation.
Media Contact: Eric Harrison, (505) 610-0419 or [email protected]