Florida College System Foundation Awards $54,057 for Student

The Florida College System Foundation has given $54,057.54 to the Polk State College Foundation for student scholarships. The contribution was presented at an event on Tuesday evening, where student Annastasia St. Louis shared her story.

MaryLynn Magar, Vice Chair of the State Board of Education, stated the funding supports students preparing for healthcare careers and those who are the first in their families to attend college. She said these opportunities can change lives and meet important state needs.

Scholarship Programs Funded

The money will support three specific scholarship programs at Polk State College. These are the Nursing and Allied Healthcare Scholarship, the First Generation Matching Scholarship, and the 21st Century Dream Makers First Generation Scholarship. Together, they assist students pursuing critical healthcare fields and first-generation college attendees.

Scholarships from the Florida College System Foundation help with tuition, fees, books, and other educational costs. For many students, this financial support is essential for staying enrolled and focused on their degrees.

A Student's Perspective

Annastasia St. Louis, a Winter Haven resident working toward an Associate in Arts degree, spoke at the presentation. She works full time as a household manager while attending classes, including during summer sessions. Changes in her family situation required her to move in with her aunt while managing her financial and educational responsibilities.

"My journey through college has not always been easy," St. Louis said. "This scholarship takes some of that weight off my shoulders."

She expects to graduate in spring 2027 and plans to apply to Polk State's limited-admission Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program. A personal medical experience solidified her career interest, where a sonographer made her feel informed and safe. "I want to provide that same comfort and reassurance to my future patients," she added.

Leadership and Impact

Dr. Henry Mack, Commissioner of Education for the Florida Department of Education, addressed the event. He called St. Louis's story one of resiliency and said the scholarship was a well-deserved honor. He stated such opportunities strengthen schools and Florida's future.

Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas said the foundation's investment will help more students earn credentials and enter meaningful careers. Polk State College Foundation Board Chair Bo Boyte emphasized the mission is increasing access to quality higher education by removing financial barriers.

Through its partnership with the Florida College System Foundation, the Polk State College Foundation aims to expand educational access for students who might otherwise struggle to afford college. St. Louis reflected that the scholarship is more than just financial aid. It is a sign that she is not pursuing her dream alone.