Cruz Andrist Memorial Scholarship

The Cruz Andrist Memorial Scholarship is offered to honor the life and memory of Cruz Abraham Andrist, an exceptional young man who passed away in 2021 after open heart surgery to correct congenital heart defects. Cruz's approach to life was that every day could be 'the best day ever' and he displayed a keen interest in learning, a love for conversation, and sharp wit. He talked about wanting to become an engineer and was very interested in biology and his own medical condition. This scholarship recognizes and demonstrates the value of joy, harmony, and a thoughtfully intelligent approach to life and the opportunities it presents. The scholarship emphasizes these characteristics in its application criteria and seeks to support students who embody Cruz's spirit and interests. The scholarship is available to graduating seniors from Okanogan County, Washington, who are pursuing further education in medical programs or engineering programs at trade/vocational schools, two- or four-year colleges or universities, or graduate schools on a full- or part-time basis. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above and demonstrate how they have and will continue to emphasize joy, harmony, and a thoughtfully intelligent approach to life on their career path. Renewal is possible for recipients who must reapply and compete with new applicants.