UFCW Local 663 recognizes how important education is for the future growth of the young people in this country. We awarded ten education grants to our members or their dependents to further their education in 2025. The winners receive a one-time educational grant to be applied to the verified school for tuition, book, or room and board. Qualifications include that the student will be attending a community or technical college or university, be a member or dependent of a member.
Hi my name is Alex Galvez, 17, I grew up in Worthington, MN. I will be attending MN West to become a Peace Officer with the passion to help others and contribute to making the world a better place for all of us. I will also be playing soccer for the bluejays, hoping for a great last two educational years before becoming a Police Officer. Thank you to UFCW 663 for the Educational Grant, I am very grateful!
My name is Gadisa Habtamu Birhanu. I am originally from Ethiopia and currently a third-year Business Management student. I enjoy playing soccer and am passionate about making a positive impact in my community. I recently completed coursework at Riverland Community College, and this grant will greatly assist me in paying off my remaining balance at the institution.
My name is Delia Howe, and I am a graduate from STMA High School, where I took an interest in Graphic Design. I thrive in an environment with like-minded individuals and am proud to have been selected to study alongside an elite group of peers for the uniquely distinct marketing and graphic design program at UMD. I have the utmost gratitude for receiving this grant to help with my tuition.
Lucinda has worked at Jerry’s Foods Eden Prairie since 2022. She graduated this year from Eden Prairie High School. She will be attending the University of Minnesota Twin Cities with plans to pursue chemical engineering.
Maddie graduated this spring from Anoka Ramsey Community College with PSEO and from Rogers High School. She is planning on studying Health Science while attending Butler University in Indianapolis this fall. Maddie’s first job was cashiering at Jerry’s Cub Foods in Rogers where she worked at the same store as her mom, Heather who runs the e-commerce department for Roger’s Cub. Maddie would like to say thank you for this generous donation that will help further her education.
My name is Adam Neisen, I am a 2025 graduate of Chaska High School. I have enjoyed working at the Lunds and Byerly’s grocery store in Chanhassen for the last two years. I am planning on majoring in economics at the University of Kansas.
Gabriella Rosecrans is starting her sophomore year of college this fall at Central Lakes College in Brainerd. She is both a dependent of a member and a UFCW Local 663 member herself and works at Crosby Super One. Gabriella is currently working towards finishing her associate’s degree. She is undecided on where she will transfer to in Fall 2026, but her goal is to become a history teacher.
My name is Kaitlyn Severson and I will be attending Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) this fall. I’ve been told I can be very determined in my goals and what I put my mind into. I always tried to work hard in school to get good grades and develop a strong work ethic. I want to use my skills to solve crimes and help those in need. After RCTC, I plan to transfer to Hamline to get a Bachelors in Forensic Science. I’d like to become a forensic science technician specializing in Trace Evidence Analysis.
I graduated from Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School in 2025, and am attending the University of Notre Dame this fall! I plan to study Chemical Engineering and Pre-Medicine, and look forward to football games and exploring South Bend, Indiana. I was hired at Lunds & Byerly’s as a bagger when I was 14 years old, and now, four years later, I’m a deli clerk. I plan to continue working at my store during college breaks. Thank you UFCW Local 663 for this amazing opportunity to help further my education and career!
My name is Tayden Jay Xaphakdy, and I come from a hardworking Laotian American family that has always supported me and pushed me to do my best. Growing up, I learned the value of dedication and independence, which has shaped my goals for the future. I plan to attend college to study computer science because I want to use technology to solve real-world problems and help others. I’m committed to working hard in school, staying involved on campus, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.