He graduated from high school a year later than his peers. After graduation, he held down a job, riding his bike there because he didn’t have a driver’s license. During the day, he took classes and studied when possible. He passed his classes. He earned his certificate as an electrical technician.
In one day, he graduated, received his job offer, passed his driver’s test, and bought a car with the money he’d saved.
Do you know what made that possible? Scholarships.
Because with scholarships
He had a computer to communicate and study at home. He could pay for classes, books, and course materials. He had a tool set to start working in his new career.
He had momentum to take his next step. And the next one after that.
He is now self-supporting and stronger.
This is what your giving does.
This is what a scholarship can unlock. And now Giving Tuesday is almost here. And we have a very clear goal.
A scholarship takes a student to the finish line. One day can change the trajectory of a student who is ready to do the work to be successful. One day to change the history of tomorrow.
We hope you will join us on Tuesday, December 2.
Because with education, the world is at their fingertips.
Joe Andreis brings over 25 years of educational leadership dedicated to helping students realize their full potential to his new Executive Director position with College Bound AZ. As co-founder and Executive Director of the Sidney Gutierrez School—ranked the #1 public middle school in New Mexico by U.S. News & World Report—Joe built a reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and strong community partnerships.
Assuming the helm on November 13, 2025, Joe brings that same commitment to College Bound AZ, focusing on expanding opportunities for first-generation and underrepresented students. With deep experience in strategic planning, fiscal management, and program development, he strengthens systems that remove barriers and open doors to higher education and career pathways.
Known for his collaborative, relationship-centered leadership, Joe works closely with students, families, educators, and community partners to create a culture of possibility. He embodies College Bound AZ’s mission to help students access, navigate, and succeed in higher education, turning potential into lifelong achievement.
After 15 years as the founding Executive Director, Elizabeth Paulus is passing the torch to incoming Executive Director Joe Andreis. “I am looking forward to Joe taking College Bound AZ to even greater horizons with his strong background in management and the nonprofit sector,” she shared. Elizabeth will remain actively involved through June 30, 2026, serving as Founder & Transition Advisor, as well as Secretary of the Board
College Bound AZ is proud to welcome Christine Veverka to our Board of Directors. Christine brings over 20 years of global education leadership — beginning with her early service as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Jordan, where she supported special education programs and trained local professionals.
She later taught in a high-need public school in the Bronx, where she strengthened academic outcomes for her students and developed innovative STEM curricula. Christine retired as a senior leader from USAID, where she designed and directed large-scale education and youth programs across Africa and the Caribbean, mobilized public-private partnerships, and championed inclusive learning for millions of students worldwide. Her deep commitment to educational equity, global perspective, and hands-on classroom experience make her an extraordinary addition to our mission.
“I strongly believe in the mission of College Bound AZ, and I’m very excited about being a part of students’ success through education,” stated Christine. We are equally thrilled to incorporate Christine’s expertise for the benefit of our youth.
As we welcome Christine, we also say goodbye to Dr. Neil Theobald, who has relocated to Minnesota to be near grandchildren. Thank you, Neil, for your leadership and commitment while helping steer College Bound AZ.
Two Medical Assistant students, Bianca Bustamante and Mosawer Azizi, were selected by EVIT Teacher Esther Elizondo for the honor of being named Student of the Month.
Ms. Elizondo remarked of Bianca Bustamante, “She is consistently punctual, warm and welcoming to others, and brings positivity with her cheerful smile.
“Mosawer Azizi is always kind and present in class, eager to learn, and unafraid to ask questions, which shows dedication and curiosity”, she said.
Students receive a congratulatory letter, a Certificate of Achievement, and a $50 cash award as part of their award.
Well done, Medical Assistant students Bianca Bustamante and Mosawer Azizi!
Where are They Now – ASU Grad Yudidt Nonthe Sanchez Interns with Phoenix Sister Cities
Yudidt Nonthe Sanchez finished her ASU undergrad in December 2024 in Public Policy and Public Service. While a senior in college, Yudidt was also selected as a Truman Scholar, one of 64 selected nationally.
Nonthe Sanchez continues to be a go-getter! The next step in her education at ASU is to pursue a master’s degree in Public Administration. She also has experience in global programs, having served as a delegate to the International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai and participated in a mission in Brazil.
Now leveraging her background, Nonthe Sanchez has accepted an internship position with Phoenix Sister Cities, where she will work on projects as a team member, including presenting at an international economic development conference, preparing for upcoming 50th anniversary celebrations with Himeji and Hermosillo, selecting Youth Ambassadors, and much more.
ASU Class of 2025
Phoenix Sister Cities Intern
Yudidt, we are all very proud of your continued success!
Each Thanksgiving, College Bound AZ offers Harvest Baskets to students who would like a Ready-to-Cook meal to take home to their family.
20 students received a meal to feed 6-8 people, consisting of vegetables, fruit, cornbread, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, a dessert, and a $25 gift card to purchase the protein of their choice. “It’s one of my favorite things we do each year,” commented Development Officer Lisa Rivera. “The smiles say it all!”
A special thank you to Kroger and the Ahwatukee BNI Foothills Sharks who funded these Thanksgiving meals!
In November, students enrolled in RISE Scholars began their scholarship searches to help them cover the cost of college.
In addition to the general scholarship list available on our website, College Bound AZ offers 11 scholarships to eligible RISE Scholars.
Applications may be submitted on January 1 through April 15, 2026.
Three new scholarships have been added this year.
Aviation Wings of Opportunity Scholarship
Flight hours range from $100 to $200 per hour and can be a deterrent to achieving pilot credentials. Former RISE Scholar and now commercial pilot, Eduardo Vidal, has generously donated a scholarship for students with a passion for flying.
Doug and Sandy Larson Veterinary Science Scholarship
The scholarship had been dedicated by Doug and Sandy Larson who have a passion for dogs that have been so integral to their family.
Rance Sneed Native American Scholarship
Mr. Sneed was a Native American who created paintings about his heritage in oils and acrylics. In 2020, he succumbed to COVID, but his artwork lives on. His family donated a piece of art that was auctioned at the Hoops for Hope 2025 Gala to raise funds for this scholarship.
For Fall 2025, students going to college were awarded nearly $33,000 in tuition-assistance scholarships, thanks to the giving hearts of our College Bound AZ family!
Thank You!
It’s with your help and support that students who aspire to a better life through education get the resources they need to succeed. Thank you so very very much!
