The Glenridge at Palmer Ranch recently awarding scholarships to exceptional staff members and their families, marking a 15-year milestone of investing in its community.
Since launching the initiative in 2010 with two $600 awards, The Glenridge has distributed more than $400,000 to support employees and their children in pursuing higher education. The program was founded by the late Mary Nesbit, former dean of The Glenridge Academy.
This year, 30 scholarships of $4,000 each totaling $120,000 were awarded.
The funds are awarded through The Glenridge Academy and The Kay Pezzillo Arts Fund. Judging the competition was a committee consisting of Nance Brisky, Judy Morrison, Dr. Mary Rainey, Sue Button, Mary Ellen Jehn, and Tobie van der Vorm.
“Every staff member plays an essential role in shaping the vibrant community we’re proud to call home,” said Brisky, chair of the scholarship committee. “Through this program, we have the privilege of honoring their dedication and investing in their futures.”
Ben Turoff, director of the Glenridge Performing Arts Center and the Glenridge’s Member Life and Events director, said that one of the “most meaningful parts of this year’s ceremony was seeing the scholarship winners and their families meet the members who made their awards possible. It was a special moment for everyone.”
· Julio Abdala, who is enrolled at State College of Florida and is halfway through his two-year physical therapy assistant program.
· Syriana Acebo, who is planning on attending University of South Florida to major in nursing.
· Grethel Santos Acosta, who is enrolled in an Advanced Nursing Program at the International University of Puerto Rico.
· Lana Albritto, who is attending Florida State University to study interior architecture and design.
· Alyssa Aldridge, who is in her first year of law school at Wake Forest University.
· Camila Blasi Greig, who is completing her post bachelor’s degree in speech pathology.
· Alex Cela, who is enrolled in the Master of Science in Anesthesia program at Case Western University.
· Cassie Cela, who is working towards her Bachelor of Nursing at Lone Star College.
· Chelsea Rodriguez Diaz, who is at Florida International University getting her degree in international relations and political science along with a pre-law certificate.
· Liam Donovan, who is getting his degree in finance at Missouri State.
· Jessica Dunham, who is working towards her RN degree at the State College of Florida.
· Andres Espinosa, who is working towards his degree in automotive mechanics.
· Alejandra Ferrera, an LPN who plans to start her BSN program at State College of Florida.
· Jean Guerra Picon, who is studying physical therapy at State College of Florida.
· Sophia Hamer, who is studying to become an occupational therapist at the University of South Florida.
· Ryasia Hennessey, who is pursuing her associate in arts degree at State College of Florida.
· Lexie-Ann Holgate, who is studying for a master’s in nursing at Chamberlain University.
· Roberto Marini, who is studying electrical and computer engineering at Florida Polytechnic University.
· Brady Mitchell, who is studying finance at State College of Florida.
· Crystal Paver, who is studying health sciences at the University of Central Florida.
· Carson Roland, who is studying economics at the University of Florida.
· Daniela Santos, who is pursuing a law degree.
· David Siddons, who is pre-med and studying applied physiology and kinesiology at University of Florida.
· Alisha Stanley, who is in the nursing program at State College of Florida.
· Latrease Thurston, who is working toward her hospitality management degree from Everglades University.
· Taylor Underwood, who is studying business management and finance at State College of Florida.
· Sophia Vance, who attends Cardinal Mooney High School and is doing dual enrollment at State College of Florida with the goal to become a radiologist.
· Spencer Waid, who is obtaining a master’s in health administration from the University of South Florida.
· Benjamin Weber, who is attending Florida Atlantic University to study computer science.
· Sarai Zambrano, who is going to State College of Florida to get her degree in biology.
Submitted by Su Byron
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Glenridge at Palmer Ranch scholarship program marks 15 years of educational support
Reporting by Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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