Numerica program helps four area students pay down student debt

Four area residents recently received help paying off their student loans after being selected to take part in a scholarship program by Numerica Credit Union.

The students got about $5,000 each to help pay down their loans as part of Numerica’s Student Loan Repayment Scholarship Program, said Katie Scofield, Numerica’s financial education officer.

“For many people, the burden of student loan debt plagues them for years after college,” Scofield said in a news release. “Relieving even a portion of this debt aligns with our commitment to our members’ financial well-being.

“These recipients inspired us with their dedication to tackling student debt, and we’re proud to support them.”

The awards were given to Chantilly Higbee, of Rathdrum; Craig Robertson, of Spokane; Rebecca Michkiosky, of Wenatchee; and Tara Bell, of Kennewick. Each received $5,000, except for Bell, who owed less than the others.

While a bit less, the scholarship paid off Bell’s loan balance after she had made 17 years worth of payments while helping pay for her oldest daughter’s college expenses.

“I have a second daughter who will be college-ready in a few years, and I look forward to teach and mentor her in how to financially prepare for college costs,” Bell said.

Each recipient was required to have completed an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree to qualify.

Through its various programs, Numerica, which is based in Spokane Valley and has more than 158,000 members, awarded about $45,000 in scholarships in 2020, according to the news release.