LAS VEGAS- May 6, 2026 – Create Credit Union (formerly Clark County Credit Union) has awarded $1,000 scholarships to ten outstanding students whose hard work and commitment to financial education stood out from the other applicants. The scholarship is designed to help ease the financial burden of higher education while investing in the future of our members and communities we serve.
“Supporting students is one of the most meaningful things we do,” said Shannon Hiller, Chief Marketing Officer at Create Credit Union. “Every scholarship recipient has worked hard to further their education, and they each have a bright future. We are honored to be part of their journey and help them take the next step toward achieving their goals.”
This year’s scholarship awards will help students pursue a wide range of educational paths, from healthcare and arts to business and technology. The 2026 Smart Start Scholarship Recipients are:
1. Andre Dominic Lee: University of Nevada, Las Vegas – Computer Science
2. Aspen Larson: The College of Southern Nevada – Project Management
3. Campbell Cole: Brown University – Economics with emphasis in Business
4. Daemian Mizuo Quintanar: The College of Southern Nevada – Computer Science
5. Jodie L. Cruz Bengson: The College of Southern Nevada – Nursing
6. Orlaina Wells: The College of Southern Nevada – Visual Arts
7. Osker Gamboa: Nevada State University – Nursing
8. Ryan Pak: University of Texas at Austin – Biology
9. Sabrina Chamas: College of Southern Nevada – Nursing
10. Savannah Heinz: University of Tampa – Advertising/PR with a minor in Leadership and Animation
Create Credit Union is committed to supporting the next generation through financial education, community programs and financial products that help students build confidence and thrive well beyond graduation. For more information about the credit union’s financial education programs and community involvement, visit www.createcu.org.
About Create Credit Union
Founded in 1951, Create Credit Union, formerly known as Clark County Credit Union (CCCU), is a not-for-profit financial institution serving more than 61,000 members, including municipal employees (Clark County, City of Henderson, City of Las Vegas, and City of North Las Vegas), medical professionals, members of Nevada Public Radio (KNPR), and numerous select employer groups. With over $1.6 billion in assets and six branches throughout Southern Nevada, Create Credit Union is committed to helping members achieve financial success through education, innovation, and community partnership. Learn more at www.createcu.org.
# # #
