America First honors Utah student athletes at annual scholarship banquet

SALT LAKE CITY (April 22, 2026) — The America First Charitable Foundation, in partnership with KJZZ and KMYU, recognized some of Utah’s top high school student athletes at its annual Scholar Athlete Banquet on April 15.

The program highlights students featured throughout the year on Thursday Night Lights and Friday Night Rivals—all of whom maintain at least a 3.5 GPA while excelling in sports, leadership and community service.

By the numbers

• 22 student athletes honored
• 3.98 average GPA
• Hundreds of hours of academics, athletics and service represented

The evening brought together student athletes and their families for dinner, awards and conversations about what it takes to succeed both on and off the field. Throughout the season, these students have balanced demanding academic schedules, multiple sports and meaningful service in their communities, demonstrating the kind of well-rounded excellence the program was designed to recognize.

A highlight of the night was a conversation with University of Utah athletes, including Camie Winger, Devon Dampier, and Byrd Ficklin who shared honest insights about the transition to college athletics. They spoke about the importance of prioritizing school, surrounding yourself with the right people and taking care of your body, while also reminding students that their identity should extend beyond their sport. Moving to the next level, they noted, means competing alongside other top athletes, and learning to grow through that challenge.

The message throughout the evening was consistent: success isn’t defined by wins alone. It’s built through discipline, perspective and the people you choose to surround yourself with.

“Surround yourself with good people,” America First Chief Strategic Engagement Officer Tammy Gallegos said. “Be the good person that others want to be surrounded by. We’re proud to support these amazing student athletes.”

Through this ongoing partnership, America First Charitable Foundation, KJZZ, and KMYU remain committed to supporting education, character, and opportunity for student athletes across Utah—investing in their success today and their potential for tomorrow.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION 
Founded in 1939, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah and has 117 locations across Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.5 million members, and the sixth largest in assets with more than $24 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.