RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. -- The California/Nevada Credit Union Leagues announced its "Kelly J. Purcell Credit Union Memorial Fund" has now reached $50,000 with its first scholarship recipient to be honored at a Feb. 26 dinner during CUNA's GAC conference in Washington, D.C. The fund was created in memory of Purcell, the former director of federal government affairs for the leagues killed by a motorist while riding her bike last August. "George Washington University is in the process of selecting the winner and it will be an honor for all of us to take part in an event that honors Kelly's deep commitment to public service," said Robert Arnould, senior vice president of government affairs for the leagues.
Purcell was a GWU graduate of political science and was herself a revered alumnae of the college having often visited the campus keeping in close touch with the faculty, said Arnould.
In a statement, Bill Cheney, president/CEO of the leagues, said it was gratifying that the initial $50,000 in contributions toward an ultimate $100,000 goal has been reached adding, "I am extremely pleased but not at all surprised by the generosity of our members, affiliates and individuals who helped us reach this first goal so quickly."
The fund set up last October establishes an annual scholarship for a student pursuing a master's degree in political management at the university. Candidates must demonstrate "the qualities of self discipline, passion and vitality for which Purcell was known."
