Eight local college-bound students from South Florida were recently awarded a life-changing opportunity to pursue their dreams, thanks to Florida Power & Light Company (FPL).
On July 8, 2023, FPL surprised these graduates with The NextEra Energy Scholarship for Black Students in the Southeastern Consortium for Minorities in Engineering (SECME), a prestigious merit award that provides up to $20,000 in financial support for high school seniors who are planning to enroll in full-time undergraduate studies at accredited two- or four-year colleges or universities.
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Students awarded by FPL
The recipients of this year’s scholarships were selected from various high schools across South Florida.
Among the talented and deserving recipients were Abdul Joseph from Forest Hill Community High School, Ashaki Allen from Blanche Ely High School, Ashley Henry from Seminole Ridge Community High School, Janaysa A. Dorcin from American Senior High School, Justin G. Walker from Blanche Ely High School, Kayla R. Parsons from Atlantic Community High School, Randy O. Smith from Everglades High School, and Samuel Dorcelus-Cetoute from Royal Palm Beach High School.
Expressing her excitement, Kayla Parsons shared, “I am very excited. I’m going to a private university, so the cost is a bit more. This scholarship will definitely help me with the financial troubles when I go to college.”
The scholarship awards were celebrated at FPL’s Manatee Lagoon, where the students were joined by their families and mentors. The event provided a joyous atmosphere for the recipients to acknowledge their accomplishments and express gratitude for the support they have received.
FPL’s commitment to STEM education
FPL’s commitment to STEM education, workforce development, and nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators is exemplified through this scholarship program. By investing in these talented students, FPL aims to foster their growth and empower them to become future industry leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.