On a sunny Wednesday, the Osceola County Education Foundation held its 30th annual scholarship award ceremony. The event distributed more than $1.1 million to more than 500 scholarships through the generosity of more than 100 donors. The ceremony was co-hosted by Education Foundation Executive Director Kelly Avery and Valencia University President Dr. Kathleen Plinske.
At the ceremony, Osceola County School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff, Board of Education Chair Heather Cahoon, Vice Chair Terry Castillo, Educational Foundation Board Founder and Chair Tommy Tompkins, and Board Member Kathy・Mr. Pearson awarded the scholarship medallion.
In 1985, the Osceola County business community and school district, led by Tommy Tompkins, came together to launch the Education Foundation, a pivotal initiative aimed at improving the quality of education. The Foundation's initial role was to provide small grants for innovative classroom programs and to help attract skilled educators. By 1992, the school had expanded its mission and established a scholarship fund as part of the district's strategic plan, guaranteeing tuition for the first year of college to all Osceola County graduates.
Today, The Education Foundation operates as a solid nonprofit organization, governed by a 40-member diverse Board of Directors made up of parents, business executives, community leaders, and elected officials. This board significantly expanded the Foundation's programs, supporting our educational staff and strengthening our commitment to enhancing the academic experience of students throughout Osceola County.
“We are extremely proud of our scholarship recipients and their outstanding accomplishments,” said Kelly Avery. “Their dedication to academic excellence is truly admirable, and we have no doubt that they will continue to positively impact the world around them.”
This year's ceremony not only celebrated the current accomplishments of 337 outstanding students, but also reflected on the foundation's historic impact, which has awarded more than $11 million in scholarships since its inception. These funds were raised through initiatives such as the annual Larry Godwin Memorial Scholarship for the Kids Golf Classic. Ongoing collaboration with over 100 community partners ensures substantial support for academics.
The Education Foundation is deeply grateful to all of our sponsors, partners, donors, and volunteers who contribute to the success of our scholarship programs each year. “Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our communities by investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” the foundation said.
For more information about the Osceola County Education Foundation and its various programs, visit foundationosceola.org. The institution continues to pave the way for future leaders through strong educational support and community involvement, ushering in a new era of opportunity and growth for Osceola County.