Meet first-generation college student Kayla Collins. Entering her senior year at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, Kayla is pursuing a career in law enforcement. She expects to graduate next spring and is fast-tracked to earn a master’s degree in criminal justice the following year.

Kayla is like a lot of USFSM students. Bright and engaging, she commutes daily from North Port while also working 40 hours a week. She plans to stay in Southwest Florida after graduation.

And like other USFSM students, Kayla appreciates the importance of Bank of America Brunch on the Bay, USF Sarasota-Manatee’s signature fundraiser for college scholarships.

“Brunch literally makes a difference in my life,” she said. “I am a first-generation college student and I’m pretty much on my own when it comes to tuition and books. Any scholarships I receive are based on merit and being a first-generation student. That’s why Brunch is so important to me and other students. Without it, I don’t know how I’d pay for college.”

Held each November – this year’s event is Nov. 3 – Bank of America Brunch on the Bay raises funds for college students like Kayla who need scholarships for tuition, books and other costs. Kicking off the social season in the region, the event features an elegant menu by some of the top restaurants in the region, who prepare and serve fine cuisine on USFSM’s scenic campus.

But what really distinguishes the event is the generous support it raises for students like Kayla.

For more about Bank of America Brunch on the Bay, visit usfsm.edu/brunch.

Brunch on the Bay