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Vanessa Faz Bridge to Success Scholarship

The Abilene Housing Authority (AHA) Vanessa Faz Bridge to Success Scholarship was created for AHA Resident Opportunities and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) participants and Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) participants (from either the Public Housing (PH) or Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) programs) who have a desire to further their education but lack the adequate financial means to accomplish this goal, and to inspire these individuals to find meaningful careers, earn a living wage, and progress toward becoming economically self-sufficient.

The Scholarship funds may only be used to cover unmet student needs directly related to tuition, student fees, books, school supplies or other pre-approved direct educational expenses on a case-by-case basis. 

Apply for the Vanessa Faz Bridge to Success Scholarship on the Community Foundation of Abilene's Scholarship Portal: https://www.cfabilene.org/scholarships/how-to-apply

Submission Deadline: March 1, 2026

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must demonstrate financial need
  • Must attend an accredited school or program; non-accredited programs will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
  • Must be a resident or participant of Abilene Housing Authority
  • Must be an active participant in either the FSS or the ROSS Program
  • Must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) 
  • Cannot have received a scholarship from Abilene Housing Authority within the last three years
  • Must be in good standing with your landlord

 Scholarship Requirements

  1. Proof of acceptance - if already accepted into a school or program
  2. Transcript - high school or most recent coursework undertaken
  3. Personal essay - written in your own words and 300-500 words in length. Describe:
    1. Your educational goals
    2. Intended major or area of concentration
    3. Educational institution you are attending or plan to attend
    4. How receiving the Scholarship will benefit you now and in the future
    5. Any other information about you and your academic goals or aspirations that you would like to be considered
  4. Letter of recommendation - from a professional reference, such as a professor, teacher, employer, community leader, or coach

Application Instructions

  1. Apply at the Community Foundation of Abilene's scholarship portal: https://www.cfabilene.org/scholarships/how-to-apply 
  2. Complete all required application sections.
  3. Save a copy of your application responses and any receipt of submission.
  4. Email Meghan Monson at meghan.monson@abileneha.org if you have any questions or need technical assistance.

Award Management

  • All unused scholarship funds must be returned to Abilene Housing Authority.
  • Awardees must inform AHA of any change in school, enrollment status, or any special billing requirements.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

The Vanessa Faz Bridge to Success Scholarship is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunity for all applicants and participants under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We do not discriminate on the basis of disability in our programs, services, or employment.

To ensure full participation, we will provide reasonable accommodations upon request. If you require accommodations, please contact Meghan Monson at meghan.monson@abileneha.org before the application deadline.

 Headshot of Vanessa Faz

Vanessa Faz
Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending
First Financial Bank

Vanessa Faz, a seasoned professional in the banking industry, has dedicated 20 years to First Financial Bank since joining in 2005. With a wealth of experience spanning 28 years in mortgage, she has become a cornerstone of the institution's success. Vanessa's notable contributions include the establishment of the Affordable Home Loan program, a pioneering initiative that empowers low to moderate-income families in reaching their dream of homeownership.

Fluent in Spanish, Vanessa plays a crucial role in assisting Spanish-speaking borrowers navigate through the intricacies of the mortgage loan processes. As an underwriter for First Financial Mortgage, she specializes in FHA, VA, and USDA mortgage loans, showcasing her expertise in diverse financial products.

Coinciding with her professional achievements, Vanessa actively contributes to the community. She served on the Professional Women in Building board, where she shared her insights and experiences with fellow industry professionals and contributed to the success of the PWB Scholarship Committee for over 15 years. Additionally, Vanessa held a position on the executive boards of both Habitat for Humanity and the Abilene Housing Authority, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact on housing initiatives and community development. Vanessa Faz was re-appointed to the Abilene Housing Authority Board back in November of 2023, and currently serves as their Board Chair.

Vanessa and her husband, Ramiro, have been married for 31 years. Their daughter, Laura, and son-in-law, Christian most recently promoted Vanessa to the title of MIMI, as her family welcomed their first grandbaby in 2025. Vanessa enjoys gardening, fishing, and spending precious time with her loved ones.