By Kevin Hendricks, The Paper
Sandoval County high schoolers chasing a foot in the door in county government just got a bigger incentive: a $5,000 continuing education scholarship, sponsored by UMB Bank, now comes attached to the county’s Junior County Treasurer Program for Fall 2026.
The Sandoval County Treasurer’s Office has opened applications for the semester-long program, which places two high school juniors and/or seniors inside county government to learn property tax collection and how those taxes fund public safety, education and infrastructure. “We’re not just investing in our students’ futures; we’re cultivating the next generation of leaders,” Treasurer Jennifer A. Taylor said in a statement.
UMB New Mexico Market President Melanie Velasquez said the bank’s sponsorship is meant to spotlight financial literacy. “The Junior County Treasurer Program provides a unique opportunity for young people to witness firsthand the impact financial services have on the community,” she said.
More details
- Applicants must submit a 350-word essay, an online application and a media release form by July 31.
- Apply online.
- The program has run since 2023.
- Watch past Junior Treasurers Faith Young and Giavanna Almanzar describe the program: https://youtu.be/M3mAu_E5rqg
Apply for the Junior County Treasurer Program
- Deadline: July 31, 2026
- Apply online: sandovalcountynm.gov/elected-officials/county-treasurer/junior-county-treasurer-program
- Questions: Orlando Jacquez, 505-867-7579
Related coverage:
- Sandoval County expands student government program, now offers high school credit (Aug. 2025)
- Sandoval County Treasurer’s Office expands junior program, offers high school credit (April 2025)
- Sandoval County names two Jr. Treasurers (Sept. 2024)