The University of Central Florida (UCF) has announced a remarkable boon for its students, made possible by a $1.64 million grant from the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation. Dedicated to helping students from the most economically challenged areas of Orange County, this grant will provide scholarships that will help them cover college expenses beyond what traditional financial aid offers.
The DeLuca Foundation, known for prioritizing health, education, and economic mobility, has selected 46 fortunate students from Jones, Evans, Oak Ridge, Colonial, and Wekiva public high schools who will receive an annual stipend of $2,500 for up to four years. This aid, as Rod Grabowski, the senior vice president for Advancement and Partnerships and CEO of the UCF Foundation, stated, as per UCF News, "will help our students unleash their potential and thrive in college and beyond, lifting up their families for generations to come." He adds that while financial aid often covers tuition, the scholarships can alleviate the substantial costs of books and housing.
Among the beneficiaries of this generous scholarship, one UCF business management major, Tanyah Hollinger, expressed her gratitude. "This scholarship has taken so much financial stress off of my parents and me, allowing me to focus entirely on my education," Hollinger said, per Florida Politics. "I’m so grateful that I don’t have to worry about how I’ll pay for my books or tuition, which lets me truly immerse myself in the college experience."
These scholarships will be awarded in the 2024-25 academic year, and preference will be given to students participating in the UCF Downtown Scholars Initiative (DSI). DSI fosters a support network for promising students from urban Orlando neighborhoods, offering one-on-one application assistance, financial aid information, and opportunities for engagement in campus activities. Beyond the initial year of college, the DeLuca Foundation’s gift ensures continued support for DSI students, allowing them to participate in community service, student organizations, and other enriching collegiate activities without the overhanging burden of financial worry.
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