When William Minnear received his acceptance letter to the University of Florida, he also received something equally life-changing—a scholarship through the Suncoast Scholars Program. The 3.8 GPA student, who volunteered more than 100 hours with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Suncoast, is pursuing chemical engineering thanks to community support made possible through this statewide partnership.
For 90 students like William across 25 Florida counties, the Suncoast Scholars Program turned ambition into opportunity. Funded by a $179,575 grant from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, the program connects local education foundations with their school districts to help deserving seniors take their next step toward college or career training.
Each local education foundation works closely with high school counselors to reach students, while local volunteers review applications and select recipients based on financial need, academic achievement, and a commitment to learning. Since 1990, the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation has invested more than $45 million in education initiatives, including more than $3.2 million in scholarships.
The program’s impact goes far beyond individual students. Local education foundations report that Suncoast Scholars often inspire additional local donors to invest in scholarships, multiplying community support for postsecondary success.
The Consortium of Florida Education Foundations proudly connects statewide partners like Suncoast Credit Union Foundation with local education foundations that know their communities best—creating meaningful opportunities for Florida students to succeed in college, career, and life.
Learn more or support students in your community at Find Your Local Education Foundation.
