First Degree ScholarshipThe volunteers behind First Degree Scholarship
Letizia Wetzel
Founder and Director of MentoringLetizia received her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Oregon State University and her master’s degree in engineering education from Utah State University. She is the President and founding partner of Perigee Consulting, a mid size engineering firm. She is a professional engineer, licensed in 18 states. While engineering is her profession, teaching and education have always been strong interests. She is the de facto college advisor for her nieces and nephews and thrives on helping young adults create and carry out a plan for their education. In her leisure time, she enjoys a scenic and grueling hike in the mountains.
Robert Burton, PhD, MBA
Director of FundraisingRob received his doctorate degree in structural biology from Purdue University and his MBA from Western Governors University. He has spent the majority of his career working on “big idea” projects for the Department of Defense, the National Human Genome Research Institute, and The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. His efforts focus on delivering access to quality health and quality education for the most vulnerable populations.
Amy Butler
Director of OutreachAmy received her bachelor’s degree in ethnic studies from the University of Utah. Currently, she’s working towards applying to occupational therapy school. Amy is a first generation college graduate. She is fluent in Spanish and has worked with at-risk youth through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program. Amy enjoys her leisure time and chasing her puppy around the house.
Stacy Haight
Director of Applications and ScoringStacy received her bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Utah. Stacy is a first generation college graduate. She has volunteered hundreds of hours in her community, including serving as PTA President of her local elementary school for several years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became a substitute teacher to help local schools and teachers. She enjoys dates with her husband, spending time with her four children, being a beekeeper, and making charcuteries.
Stacey Leak
Director of Information TechnologyStacey received her bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Utah State University and a master’s degree from the University of Utah in health education. She has been a secondary English Language Arts teacher for 21 years. Stacey loves teaching teens and is passionate about education. She has been involved with providing guidance and leadership to youth through many programs, including 4H, Latinos In Action, after school programs, and youth groups. She enjoys a good, long hike in the mountains and amateur gardening.
Aimee Oviatt
Director of OperationsAimee received her bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with an emphasis in marketing and secondary education from Westminster College. She has spent over 25 years as a volunteer mentoring and serving teenagers in her area. She has a passion for organization and helping others. She enjoys the outdoors from the mountains to the beaches and spending time with her family.