Generation Next

Dollars for ScholarsSeniors vie for the Emerald Coast Magazine Scholarship

By Amanda Finch Broadfoot

To reward a successful academic career – as well as encourage public service – Rowland Publishing will award a $500 scholarship annually to a deserving public high-school senior in Okaloosa or Walton counties.

Since we’ve started our scholarship program, we have been delighted to see these high-school seniors go on to follow their dreams into the university setting where they are preparing for careers in medicine, engineering and public service.

Our scholars’ stories are inspiring. Rebecca Stone of Fort Walton Beach High School, winner of last year’s Emerald Coast Magazine Scholarship, was an Okaloosa County Academic All Star, vice-president of the National Honor Society and second in her graduating class. In addition, she managed to tutor local elementary students, serve as a youth soccer coach and hold down a job at the Airport Veterinary Clinic.

Jeffrey Walker, a graduate of Leon High School in Tallahassee, was not only named a Gates (as in Bill Gates) Millennium Scholar but also has logged more than 190 volunteer hours with the Volunteer Leon Youth Corps. On top of his academic and community service achievements, he worked 20 hours a week at Fazoli’s Restaurant and was, of course, named Associate of the Year.

Now we’re looking for inspiration among this year’s Emerald Coast high-school seniors. The ideal Emerald Coast Magazine scholar has excelled academically and would benefit from a financial gift to reach goals for higher education. He or she will provide three teacher references, as well as information about any honors and achievements that should be considered.

Our scholarship review board gives special consideration to nominees who have a track record of community service. At least one reference from each volunteer organization should be included with the application package.

In addition, three letters of recommendation should come from members of the community outside the applicant’s family – teachers, coaches, pastors, etc.

In order to get to know our potential scholars a little better, we also ask that each writes a 500-word essay. The topic: overcoming a significant challenge. How did you face this challenge? What did you learn in the process?

Rowland Publishing looks forward to making an award to a 2007 graduate with maturity, drive and a giving spirit. The winner will be featured in our August/September issue of Emerald Coast Magazine.

Applications are due by May 1. You can download an application online at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com