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Scholarship Recipient Stories & Impact

Featured Story: Rossie Jenkins

Rossie Jenkins knows firsthand how life-changing access to education can be. As a Fall 2025 nursing graduate of Indian River State College, Rossie balanced the demands of returning to school with the realities of adult life, including work, responsibilities, and financial pressure. A scholarship made it possible for her to stay focused on her goal of becoming a nurse and serving her community.

Today, Rossie is putting that goal into action, working in healthcare and making a difference in patients’ lives every day. Her journey reflects the power of second chances and the importance of support at the right moment.

With the help of donors, Rossie did more than complete a degree. She stepped into a career of purpose, stability, and service. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the ripple effect that begins when a single student is given the opportunity to succeed.

Alumni Spotlights: Where Are They Now?

Scholarship recipients continue to make an impact long after graduation, building careers, serving their communities, and often giving back.

Damaris Olivera, a 2024 graduate, is now working as a Peer Support Leader while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Human Services. Tatiana Wallace, who earned her AA in 2025, mentors youth as a Group Leader while continuing her education. Julissa Hernandez’s journey spans from dual enrollment student to Doctor of Pharmacy graduate. She is now completing her residency and has returned as a mentor to guide the next generation.

These stories show that scholarships do more than fund education. They create leaders, mentors, and changemakers.

Student Voices: The Impact of Giving

— Damaris Olivera

— Diana Rodriguez

— Kurt R.

— Liying F.

— Norma M.

By the Numbers

Last year, your generosity made a measurable difference:

59

scholarships awarded to incoming 9th-grade students

47

program seniors successfully graduated