Weld RE-5J Foundation

Scholarships for 5J Students

The Weld RE-5J Education Foundation proudly congratulates the scholarship recipients from the Roosevelt High School Class of 2026.

Through the support of community donors, alumni, and memorial scholarship funds, students were recognized for their dedication to academics, Career and Technical Education pathways, leadership, perseverance, and future career goals.

The Weld RE-5J Education Foundation Scholarship continues to support students pursuing careers in construction, engineering, and Career & Technical Education fields, helping students take the next steps toward college, trade school, and workforce success.

The Roosevelt High School Alumni Association Scholarships recognize graduating seniors who have demonstrated commitment to their education and future goals while continuing the proud traditions of Roosevelt High School.

The John Olivas Jr. Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of John Olivas Jr., a Roosevelt High School wrestling standout whose determination, work ethic, and passion for higher education continue to inspire students today.

The Figueroa-Bennett Educational Scholarship celebrates resilience, perseverance, service, and the belief that students can overcome challenges to achieve their dreams and goals through education and hard work.

We are grateful to the families, alumni, donors, and community members whose generosity continues to create meaningful opportunities for Weld RE-5J students. Congratulations to all scholarship recipients from the Class of 2026. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these students will make in their future careers, communities, and beyond.

2026 Scholarship Awardees

Colten Schlagel - John Olivas $2000

Colten Schlagel plans to pursue Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Aerospace Engineering, combining his love of math, science, and design. Through engineering and track, he has developed resilience and determination, and hopes to one day make a meaningful impact in the aerospace industry.

Jasiel Tovar - Accenture $1000 and Figueroa Bennett Scholarship $1000

Jasiel Tovar has been actively involved in Student Council, Sources of Strength, FBLA, track, and cross country while serving his school and community. As a first-generation college student, he plans to attend Colorado State University to study Civil Engineering and hopes to build a stronger future for others through his work.

Ashleigh Sassano - Alumni #1 $1000

Ashleigh Sassano plans to pursue a degree in Psychology with a Pre-Law focus as she works toward becoming a lawyer. Inspired by her own experiences and passion for advocacy, she hopes to make systems more accessible and equitable for individuals and families in need.

Emma Jex - Alumni #2 $1000 and Figueroa Bennett Scholarship $4000

Emma Jex has challenged herself through cross country, HOSA leadership, anatomy studies, and international-level competition. She plans to study neuroscience, biology, or health sciences on a pre-med track, with the goal of becoming a physician and helping improve the lives of others.

Grace Jackson - Foundation $1000 and Figueroa Bennett Scholarship $1000

Grace Jackson has demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to community service, inspiring her passion for law and advocacy. She plans to attend Washington University in St. Louis to study Philosophy with a Law and Policy specialization as she prepares for a future in law.

Annabelle Rusco - Foundation $1000

Annabelle Rusco plans to study Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience as she begins her journey toward becoming a physician. Through leadership and service, she has developed a passion for compassionate healthcare and hopes to one day improve healthcare access in Colorado communities.

Jules Price - Foundation $1000

Jules Price’s curiosity and love of learning have inspired a passion for medicine and science. After high school, Jules plans to study Health Sciences or Biology at either Kansas State or Clemson University, with the goal of becoming an OBGYN and advancing women’s healthcare.

Haiden Chambers - Foundation $1000

Haiden Chambers has been a passionate advocate for special education, helping establish a unified basketball program and serving as a Student Representative to the Weld RE-5J Board of Education. She plans to attend the University of Colorado Boulder to study Accounting while continuing her advocacy work in education and community leadership.

Reese Pope - Foundation $1000

Reese Pope plans to attend the University of Northern Colorado to pursue nursing, inspired by the care her family received during difficult times. After earning CNA experience, Reese hopes to become a pediatric or NICU nurse and continue helping children and families through compassionate care.

Aaron Wehage - Foundation $1000 and Figueroa Bennett Scholarship $1000

Aaron Wehage will attend Colorado School of Mines to study Engineering, driven by his love of innovation and solving real-world problems. Through engineering design projects and hands-on problem solving, Aaron hopes to make a meaningful impact in his future career.

Courtney Hanna - Foundation $1000

Inspired by her grandmother and experiences in Teacher Cadet classes and classroom job shadowing, Courtney Hanna plans to attend the University of Northern Colorado to study Elementary Education. She hopes to become the kind of teacher who inspires confidence and curiosity in every child.

Hayden Babiuch - Foundation $1000

Hayden Babiuch plans to pursue a degree in Economics at the University of Colorado Boulder as he works toward a future career in public international law. Inspired by service, global issues, and advocacy, he hopes to use law to help others and create meaningful change.

Jaidyn Jones - Foundation $1000

Jaidyn Jones plans to attend the University of Kansas to pursue nursing, beginning this summer by earning her CNA license and working in elder care. Inspired by her family and passion for helping others, she hopes to one day work in the NICU or travel nursing.

Abigail Penn - Foundation $1000

Abigail Penn plans to pursue higher education with a passion for helping others and making a meaningful impact. Inspired by the love and support of her family and her own resilience, Abigail hopes to build a future centered on growth, service, and creating opportunities to positively influence those around her.

Chloe Garcia - Figueroa Bennett Scholarship $2000

Chloe Garcia plans to attend the University of Northern Colorado to study Anthropology or Criminal Justice as she pursues a future in forensic anthropology. Fascinated by science and investigation, she hopes to one day help solve cases and support criminal investigations.

Stephanie Yanney - Figueroa Bennett Scholarship $1000

Inspired by her mother’s work as a nurse and her own love of science, Stephanie Yanney plans to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at the University of Wyoming. She hopes to help others through medicine while

2025 Scholarship Awardees

• Megan Adkisson- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship
• Jessica Balderson- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship  
• Yaelyn Chavez -Figueroa Bennett scholarship and Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Ayla Deter- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Shelby Dunn- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Addisen Hunt - Figueroa Bennett scholarship and Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Taegan Olson- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Kaylie Policicchio- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Mikkhi Sedey- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Cassidy Webb- Weld Re5J Foundation Scholarship 
• Caelin Adkins - Figueroa Bennett scholarship and RHS Alumni
• Richard Boresen- Anser (Accenture) Scholarship
• Arieanna Castro - Figueroa Bennett scholarship
• Maiya Peters -Figueroa Bennett scholarship
• Julian Pham - Figueroa Bennett scholarship
• Madi Stumpf- RHS Alumni
• Oscar Torres- John Olivas Scholarship 

2023 Scholarship Awardees

• Leo Rivera – John Olivas and Weld RE-5J Foundation Scholarship
• Kaitlin Stubbings - Weld RE-5J Foundation Scholarship
• Alany Carillo - Weld RE-5J Foundation Scholarship
• McKenzie Hall - Weld RE-5J Foundation Scholarship
• Ryne Knutson - Weld RE-5J Foundation Scholarship, Anser Advisory Construction Pathway Scholarship
• Athena Herrera – Alumni Scholarship, Bennett-Figueroa Scholarship
• Jada Bernhardt – Alumni Scholarship, Weld RE-5J Foundation Scholarship
• Kyle James – Weld RE-5J Foundation and Bennett-Figueroa Scholarship
• Jarron Hunt - Weld RE-5J Foundation and Bennett-Figueroa Scholarship
• Justin Balderson – Weld RE-5J Foundation and Bennett-Figueroa Scholarship
• Kaley MacGregor – Bennett-Figueroa Scholarship
• Devin Martin - Weld RE-5J Foundation and Bennett-Figueroa Scholarship
• Lyndsey Pancost - Bennett-Figeueroa Scholarship
• Abigail Sears – Bennett Figueroa Scholarship
• Cutler Terry – Bennett Figueroa Scholarship
• Adriana Tori – Bennett Figueroa Scholarship

2025-2026 Teacher Grant Funds

• Multiple Schools:  Judith Anne Madruga for Adaptive PE equipment - $1,798
• Roosevelt High School:  Krista Davison for Heart Zones System - $1,750
• Pioneer Ridge Elementary:  Amy Thompson for a chomp saw for effective and safe cardboard creation - $747
• Roosevelt Middle School:  Kesley Sharp for KitchenAid Classic Series Stand Mixers - $1,000
• Elwell Elementary School:  Jennifer Phillips for Light Tables to spark literacy excitement and curiosity - $1,021
• Roosevelt Middle School:  Megan Sanders for Jazz Band electric bass, piano, and drum set - $1,200
• Elwell Elementary School:   Sarah McCambridge for nonfiction animal research titles for media center - $1,000
• Roosevelt High School:  Rob Thompson for electrical, plumbing, and carpentry storage systems - $615
• Elwell Elementary School:  Lois Lebsack for SEL Zones of Regulation materials - $550
• Roosevelt Middle School:  Katherine Schifter for What the Eye Cannot See microscopes - $1,232
• Roosevelt High School:  Link Lanter for classroom set of steroscopes - $1,075
• Milliken Elementary School:  Virginia Cote for visual timers and cube chairs as part of Sensory Regulation and Inclusive Classroom Initiative - $500
• Pioneer Ridge Elementary:  Amy Thompson for Cricut to personalize student creation - $500
• Milliken Elementary School:  Patsy Burenheide for resources for indoor recess, student breaks, and targeted behavior supports - $1,330 (pics below)
• Pioneer Ridge Elementary:  Emily Davis for literary texts for Socratic Seminar - $685
• Roosevelt High School:  John Balderson for saxophone repair and purchase - $2,472
• Roosevelt High School:  Kayla Sommers for CPR and AED training - $685
• Milliken Intermediate School:  Jennifer Rauch for student celebration sticker maker - $248
• Pioneer Ridge Elementary:  Song Her for floor toms and 5 sets of tubano drums - $2,000
• Roosevelt High School:  Anna Johnson for book sets of dystopian novels - $500

The Weld Re5J Foundation is dedicated to supporting education in the Weld Re5J School District. 
In 2024-2025, the Teacher Grant fund awarded $16,996.  

2024-2025 Teacher Grant Funds

• Roosevelt High School:  Jacob Aychman for Wireless Mics for A Cappella Choir - $1,000
• Milliken Middle School:  Megan Sanders for Roosevelt Middle School Band Commission - $1,250
• Multiple Schools:  Jill Brookwater for Project Accessibility - The Expanded Core Curriculum at work! - $500
• Milliken Middle School:  Kaley Taylor for Circuit board - $1,600
• Roosevelt High School:  Jazmine Zuniga for "grow" student knowledge- Greenhouse Germination Chamber - $2,100
• Roosevelt High School:  Heather Carnes for Catering - $1,000
• Milliken Middle School:   Lincoln Brandt for Keyboard Stands for Music Exploration - $400
• Milliken Elementary:  Jamie Leopold for Community Circle Listeners - $836
• Pioneer Ridge Elementary School:  Amy Thompson for Engineering and Coding Through Dash Robots - $720
• Roosevelt High School:  Noah Walsh for Increasing Student Access to Industrial Drones - $1,000
• Elwell Elementary Preschool:  Heidi Stilwell for Rocky Mountain Early Childhood PLAY Conference: Powerful Learning for Active Young Minds - $1,120
• Roosevelt High School:  Cristina Collins-Weyand for Inspiration for Inclusion - $360
• Roosevelt High School:  Jerry Martin for Art Room - Combination Slab Roller/Extruder - $1,860
• Roosevelt High School:  Link Lanter for Facial Reconstruction - $1,000
• Pioneer Ridge Elementary:  Robyn Moore for Flexible Seating Initiative - $700
• Knowledge Quest Academy:  Allan Wilger for First Lego Robotics Team - $800
• Roosevelt High School:  Kayla Sommers for Human Anatomical Joints Set - Models + Augmented Reality - $750

2022-2023 Teacher Grant Funds

The Weld RE-5J Foundation is dedicated to supporting education in the Weld Re5J School District, and is thrilled to announce the recipients of its 2022-2023 Teacher Grant funds. This year, the foundation proudly awarded a total of $10,000 to deserving school staff members who demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the educational experience of their students.

• Vicki Regalado for the purchase of Stop Motion Animation Books - $400
• Jenna Conover for the purchase of Library Books - $2,000
• Tresa Waggoner for the purchase of Music Instruments - $1,700
• Robyn Moorefor the purchase of Assistive Technology Devices - $1,000
• Jenifer Fogarty for the purchase of Ceramic Slab Roller - $1,200
• Kelly Krank for the purchase of Viro Bots - $450
• Michelle Brumagim for the purchase of Trails Program Materials - $1,500
• Kayla Sommers for the purchase of Magnetic Hot Plates - $480
• Link Lanter for the purchase of Microscopes - $1,270

The Weld RE-5J Foundation would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the supporters of the organization who generously contributed to the Teacher Grant funds. Their unwavering dedication to education has made these grants possible. The foundation also commends all the school staff members who applied for the grants, recognizing their commitment to going above and beyond for their students. Together, they are making a profound impact on the lives of young learners and nurturing a love for learning that will last a lifetime.

Weld RE-5J Foundation Team Members

Jennifer Boresen

Jennifer Boresen, a dedicated member of the Roosevelt High School team since 2003, currently serves as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator, (SC)2 Sponsor, and Interact Club Sponsor. Jennifer's commitment to the Rider community and her passion for Career and Technical Education programs at Roosevelt High School propelled her to obtain certification as a Work-Based Learning Coordinator. Her tireless dedication and expertise make her an ideal candidate for the Weld Re5J Foundation committee, where she continues to contribute to the advancement of education and career opportunities for students.

Anthony Durst

Over the past 9+ years, Anthony and his wife Rebecca have lived within the Weld RE-5J community.  They have a five-year-old daughter, Adalynn, who currently attends Pioneer Ridge Elementary.  One of Anthony’s passions in life is to always serve others.  In 2019, he started to serve on the Board of the Foundation and currently is the President.  He is also the Chairman of the Weld RE-5J CTE Advisory Board.  Anthony grew up in Iowa and graduated from South Dakota State University in 2007.  He moved out to Colorado after graduating and has found his home in the middle of corn fields again, within the Weld RE-5J community.  Anthony has had the opportunity to work for Adolfson & Peterson Construction for 19+ years and currently is the Vice President of Preconstruction.  The majority of his career he has worked in the education sector when it comes to K-12 and Higher Education.  Anthony has been part of the Rocky Mountain region since 2006.  Anthony continues his service work to better the community by being a member of the Johnstown BBQ Days Planning Committee.  He serves as one of the primary fundraising members along with hosting the Punt, Pass, & Kick event.

Chanin Gaona

Chanin Gaona has proudly served as the Director of Early Childhood and Student Services for the Johnstown-Milliken Weld RE-5J School District since 2012 and has worked in the field of education since 1998. As a longtime member of the Johnstown community and a graduate of Roosevelt High School, returning to her hometown in 2005 with her husband and two sons felt like a natural and meaningful step. Being rooted in the community enriches the work of supporting young learners and partnering with the families who call this district home.

Passionate about early learning, Chanin is committed to providing nurturing, developmentally rich experiences that support the whole child—socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically. She invites families and community members to learn more about the district’s early childhood programs and visit the schools to experience the joy and excitement that fill the classrooms each day.

Community involvement is an essential part of this work. In addition to district responsibilities, serving as a volunteer board member for the Weld RE5J Education Foundation reflects a deep commitment to strengthening opportunities for all students. Supporting grants, resources, and community partnerships helps ensure that schools and the families they serve continue to thrive.

Jeff Grim

Jeff Grim has been the Director of Golf at the Mad Russian Golf Course, operated by Thompson Rivers Parks and Recreation District (TRPR), for the past 3 years. With 15 years of service at TRPR, he previously served as the Recreation Director before stepping into his current role. Passionate about golf, hunting, and fishing, Jeff also cherishes time spent with his wife and two children.

Austin Kendall

In 2021, Austin Kendall graduated from Roosevelt High School while earning the Accenture Scholarship. With that scholarship, he pursued a degree in Construction Management at Colorado State University, graduating in 2025. He now works as an estimator for Adolfson & Peterson Construction and has contributed to projects such as Roosevelt High School, Roosevelt Middle School, the YMCA, and Pioneer Ridge Elementary School. Growing up in the community and receiving a scholarship through the Weld RE-5J Foundation has inspired Austin to give back and support both local teachers and the next generation of students.

Casey Madigan

Casey joined Bank of Colorado in 2017 and currently serves as Assistant Vice President at the Johnstown Branch. A Colorado State University graduate with a double major in Finance and Economics, Casey specializes in commercial lending and business development. Casey takes pride in building strong relationships and supporting local businesses. Deeply committed to community service, Casey serves on the Board of Directors for Respite Care and the Weld RE-5J Education Foundation and is an active member of the Johnstown Milliken Rotary. Having moved to Colorado at an early age, a proud semi-native, he enjoys golfing, skiing, and cheering on the CSU rams. Casey’s dedication to both professional excellence and community engagement reflects a passion for making Northern Colorado a great place to live and work.

Veronica Schlagel

Veronica Schlagel is a dedicated insurance professional with 25 years of experience as an agent and a proud member of the State Farm family for over 30 years. Passionate about helping people, Veronica is committed to providing personalized service that truly makes a difference. Beyond the office, Veronica actively gives back to the community through involvement with the local education system, the downtown development association, and veterans’ organizations. With a deep-rooted commitment to service and community growth, Veronica strives to create a positive impact both professionally and personally.

Brianna Waugh

As a proud mom of two and a real estate professional with 15 years of experience, I’m committed to serving the community I’m fortunate to call home. Supporting our schools and ensuring classrooms have the resources they need is a core part of my values. It’s truly inspiring to see the impact that’s made when a community comes together for its kids, and it’s one of the many reasons I’m grateful to live and work here.  

Chad Young

Chad was born and raised in Johnstown where the Young’s have been active for five generations.  He has been humbled to serve his community for over 25 years on city council and other community boards. A 1991 graduate of Roosevelt High School, he went on to attend school at NJC-Sterling, UNC-Greeley and AIMS Community College.  He owns and operates his own funeral home, Young's Funeral Service in Johnstown after serving the industry for 30 plus years.  

Chad has also served on the Weld RE-5J Education Foundation Board since 2020, supporting our students with scholarships and the educators with teacher grants.  He also serves the Glenn A. Jones MD Memorial Library Board for 25-plus years, through a council appointment, as well as with other numerous local, community organizations and charities over the years.  

In the spare time he is afforded, he is a 20-plus year singing member of the Greeley Chorale and had the opportunity to travel the world and perform with their organization in numerous countries and active with the Johnstown United Methodist Church.  He is grateful to call Johnstown home with his three pups and lives by the motto, “The Community That Cares”. 

Andy Yost

Andy Yost is a 2nd generation Roosevelt High School graduate and taught Business at RHS for 26 years before retiring from teaching in 2022.  Andy was part of a group of RHS Alumni that started the RHS Alumni Association in 2003, which merged with the WeldRE5J Foundation in 2021.  Andy currently works for the Weld Trust as a Scholar Relations Officer in the Bright Futures Program and assists Weld County graduates during their post-secondary training and education.  Andy has been married to his wife Stacey (who also taught in the district) for 30 years, and has two grown children, Logan and Riane who are also proud graduates from Roosevelt High School.