JOHNSTON, Iowa (Feb. 10, 2025) — Each year, the Iowa Bankers Association presents the Student Athlete Achievement Award to student-athletes who excel not only in athletics, but also academically and in their communities. Valerie Cook, a senior at Sheldon High School, was presented the scholarship award at the third state-sanctioned Iowa High School Girls State Wrestling Tournament held Feb. 6-7 in Coralville.
“As a student-athlete, artist, performer and scholar, Valerie exemplifies what it means to be a well-rounded and hardworking individual,” said Julie Roos, Sheldon High School assistant girls wrestling coach. “She is a kind, determined, and inspiring individual who leads by example. Her ability to balance numerous commitments while maintaining a positive attitude and helping those around her speaks to her integrity and leadership.”
Samantha Fordyce, second vice president, retail market manager at MidWestOne Bank in North Liberty, presented Cook with the $1,000 scholarship to the college of her choice.
“The Iowa Bankers Association is proud to recognize remarkable high school seniors that are leaders on their teams, in the classroom and in their community,” said Adam Gregg, IBA president and CEO. “As longtime supporters of financial literacy, Iowa bankers are committed to helping Iowans reach their financial goals. We know that these scholarship recipients have a bright future, and we hope they will continue to contribute to Iowa communities following graduation.”
For three decades, the IBA has sponsored the Student Athlete Achievement Award program, which has grown to honor student-athletes in football, basketball and wrestling. The IBA has awarded more than $350,000 in scholarships since the program began.
###
About the Iowa Bankers Association
The Iowa Bankers Association represents Iowa banks and savings institutions. Iowa bankers are committed to the values of honesty, hard work and community service, and have been a trusted resource for Iowans for more than 135 years. Iowa banks offer FDIC insurance and lend nearly $87 billion to help individuals, business owners and agriculture. Nearly 40,000 Iowans work at an Iowa bank, and bank employees volunteer more than 300,000 hours to support local communities each year. To learn more, visit www.iowabankers.com.