Panama City, FL – The Gulf Coast State College Foundation is excited to announce that it has received a donation totaling $26,526.61 from The Florida College System Foundation. This contribution will be used to support the Bank of America’s Dream Makers Scholarship for first generation students, the First Generation/Helios Education Scholarship, also for first generation college students, and the Florida Blue Scholarship supporting Nursing and Health Sciences students. In addition, the Florida Blue Nursing and Allied Health Scholarship requires a local match partner. This year, GCSC District Board of Trustees Chairman, Mr. William C. Cramer, Jr., has matched the Florida Blue Scholarship of $16,206.61, to total over $32,000.00 towards student scholarships.
The Florida College System Foundation has been providing student scholarships to Florida’s 28 colleges since 1999. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and the official direct support organization for the entire Florida College System. Over the years, the Florida College System Foundation has provided approximately $513,000 to the Gulf Coast State College Foundation in the form of direct support scholarships for tuition, books, and fees. The GCSC Foundation and our College are honored to receive the support that has given our students the opportunity to pursue their education.
“For nearly 24 years, the Florida College System Foundation has proudly supported Florida College System institutions by funding scholarships for students,” says Chancellor Kathy Hebda of the Florida Department of Education. “And again this year, the Foundation Board of Directors is proud to announce that we are awarding $1.3 million to Florida College System Institutions to provide scholarships to students who are pursuing degrees in Nursing, Allied Health Programs, Teacher Education, and to students who are the first in their family to attend college. It is my great pleasure to present a check this morning from the Florida College System Foundation to Gulf Coast State College in the amount of $26,527.”
“It is also my great pleasure to especially recognize your Chair, Bill Cramer. You all know him because Mr. Cramer is a dedicated long-standing member of the Gulf Coast State College Board of Trustees. In addition, he is has also served on the Florida College System Foundation for over a decade. Chair Cramer’s generosity with his talents and resources has helped many students achieve their dreams of earning a college education. Having someone like Mr. Bill in your corner is a win for all of us. Our students, our communities, The Florida College System Foundation, and Florida’s thriving economy. Thank you so much, Chair Cramer.”
A check presentation was held during the District Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.