At Azura Credit Union, we believe in empowering future leaders through opportunity—and one way we live that mission is through our annual scholarships. Each year, Azura awards two scholarships to outstanding students pursuing higher education: the Above and Beyond Scholarship and the Educators of Tomorrow Scholarship.
In 2025, we continued our commitment to supporting students by offering each scholarship at $3,000—an increase made in 2024 to better reflect the growing cost of higher education. This year, we received over 100 applications between January 1 and April 1, and we’re proud to introduce the recipients of this year’s awards.
Above and Beyond Scholarship
Braxton McDaniel, a sophomore at Fort Hays State University, has been selected as this year's
Above and Beyond Scholarship recipient. He is majoring in Technology Studies - Construction Management, with a certificate in Business Management. Braxton carries a 3.40 GPA and has been recognized on the Fort Hays State Dean's Honor Roll. He is also a dedicated student-athlete, playing offensive line for the FHSU football team.
“If you want something bad enough, you have to work hard to achieve it.”
-Braxton McDaniel
A proud Topeka/Silver Lake native, Braxton grew up in a close-knit family of six and is the grandson of Azura members Donald and Theresa Taggart. Known for his big heart and strong work ethic, Braxton describes himself as a “big teddy bear”—a nickname he’s earned from being the protective older brother to three sisters. His passion for the outdoors, community service, and sports has shaped his character and ambitions. From helping build playground equipment through his church to volunteering with Meals on Wheels, Braxton often seeks ways to give back.
Educators of Tomorrow Scholarship
Clara Johnston, a freshman at Kansas State University studying Elementary Education, is the recipient of this year's
Educators of Tomorrow Scholarship. She is currently a Tomorrow’s Teacher Scholar at KSU, a distinction that recognizes her potential in the field and provides hands-on experience in local schools.
Clara, an Azura member from Maple Hill, Kansas, has always felt called to the classroom. As a child, she organized make-believe school days for her younger siblings. Today, she’s preparing for a real one—pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher in a rural community like the one she grew up in.
“When my first students walk through the door and hang their bags up, I’ll know that everything in my life led up to this moment. All I’ve ever wanted is one room, about 20 students, a million crayons and a whiteboard to share my love of learning.”
-Clara Johnston
In high school, Clara was active in 4-H, Future Farmers of America (FFA), and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), sharpening her leadership and public speaking skills through national competitions and service projects.
Outside the classroom, Clara enjoys reading, cooking and spending time with her family. Her favorite books include The Giver, Pride and Prejudice and Anne of Green Gables—true classics for a future educator.
Learn more about Azura’s scholarship opportunities and how we invest in education by visiting our Scholarships Page.
