State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, has not raised our tuition in 13 years, and for the last 10 years, our Foundation has awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships to students each year. In our mission to provide engaging and accessible learning environments, we also work to eliminate barriers, such as financial, that might prevent any student from continuing their higher education. Students can graduate with an associate degree from SCF for just under $7,000.

Worth mentioning is that many scholarship recipients are also working full- or part-time, raising children, supporting their families or dealing with hardships that require them to prioritize their daily choices. Throughout the years, I'm reminded repeatedly of the grit and determination these students possess and I find myself motivated and inspired by their journeys.

We honor these students and their benefactors at our Annual Scholarship Luncheon, which raised over $150,000 last year. The luncheon connects scholarship recipients with those who have supported their education and creates awareness of SCF's impact in the community throughout the event's program. Most importantly, students can share their appreciation and the effect of a scholarship with those in attendance.

Shawn C. shared his appreciation for his scholarship with a note saying, "Growing up, I never believed that I would be a successful student, let alone a college student. I struggled with ADHD, dyslexia and a difficult home life with my absent mother and battle-worn father, who enlisted in the Marines. I was placed in remedial classes time and time again, and it felt as if I could never dig myself out of this educational hole. After taking an extended break after high school, I constantly worked labor-intensive jobs; this experience gave me perspective on the importance of education." A current student, he’s made the dean’s list for three semesters.

Another recipient stated that with her current employment, she is frequently away from her daughter and must work extra hours to survive and get her daughter's necessities. She is enrolled to pursue a bachelor's degree in Exceptional Student Education. She wants to help inspire many children of different cultural backgrounds to feel that they belong and can accomplish almost anything to which they set their minds.

Emily C., a retired veteran, wants a career where she can feel the same pride and accomplishment that she had in the military. As a wife and mother of five, Emily is also seeking a work-life balance that she didn't have in the military so she can spend time with her family. She is also pursuing a bachelor's degree in education.

Shellyann graduated this past December with her Bachelor of Applied Science degree in public safety and emergency management. A single mother of four children relying on one income, the scholarship gave her the financial resources to further her education, which increased her earning potential and promotion opportunities.

Our affordable tuition rates and the availability of scholarships make higher education possible for veterans, first-time college students, those looking to advance their careers, and those rejoining the workforce. SCF’s Financial Aid office and Foundation work with applicants to find financial support options to reduce or eliminate barriers or student debt.

Through April 15 students can apply for 2024-‘25 academic year scholarships with SCF's Foundation by applying online at SCF-Foundation.org. You can also find information about donating to or establishing a scholarship at this website.

Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld is president of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.