EFSC Foundation Donors Thanked for Generosity

Eastern Florida State College student scholarship recipients had the opportunity to express their gratitude to those who have helped them study for a degree at the EFSC Foundation’s Annual Titan Donor Scholarship Reception.

Held on the EFSC Melbourne Campus on Thursday, April 6, more than 160 people attended the emotion-packed event with college president Dr. Jim Richey praising donors for their “selfless generosity.”

He noted that a record $836,000 in donations resulted in 940 scholarships awarded last academic year, showing the indispensable role that donors plan in college life.

“We can see the results of your kindness right here in this room tonight and in classrooms throughout all four of our campuses where students are pursuing their dreams – dreams that might otherwise be lost or discarded,” said Richey.

“You are truly making a difference in their lives. Please accept my sincere thanks for opening your hearts in a way that will resonate for generations to come.”

A recipient of the Cadore Family Scholarship, Michelle Canada, was thrilled to have the chance to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse.

“Being a scholarship recipient has empowered me beyond my wildest dreams,” she said. “I believe it is important for minorities to support other minorities in higher education and in many other aspects of life. I am eternally grateful to the Cadore family for this opportunity.”

Donors Joseph and Patricia Riesett and sibling, Carol Valentine, created the Mary Virginia Hurtt scholarship upon the passing of their sister.

They attend the event annually and were thrilled to express the joy they feel when they get the chance to interact with the students.

“Our youth are so very important,” said Valentine. “They are the next in line and need our help to be successful.”

“We set up this scholarship in memory of our sister in the hope of helping other students with special needs.”

For more information about the EFSC Foundation, or to donate to a scholarship, call (321) 433-7055 or visit efscfoundation.org.

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