Donors and Students Celebrated at UCF Scholarship Luncheon

COS Scholarship recipients chat with donors over lunch in the Live Oak ballroom.

On Sept. 24, the UCF College of Sciences held its second Scholarship Luncheon to celebrate its supportive donors and accomplished student scholarship recipients. Applause rang through the room as guests celebrated the $45,000 in financial assistance awarded to 24 scholarship recipients.

The event provided a unique opportunity for the scholarship recipients to have lunch with the donors that provide their financial support. Donors, staff and recipients chatted about future endeavors and pursuits as they enjoyed a meal in the Live Oak Event Center on UCF campus. Dr. Michael Johnson, Dean of the UCF College of Sciences, and other college staff at the event thanked the donors for their generous support.

“Each year, more and more of our students need scholarship support to begin or continue their education,” explained Dean Johnson. “Each scholarship represented today was established out of a true generosity of spirit, and has no doubt impacted the life of one or more of our students.”

From the newest to the oldest and all those in between, scholarship gifts help the college attract and retain the best students. They also lessen the financial burden so academic pursuits can take priority.

The crowd of 50 donors, recipients and staff applauded as COS Associate Dean, Dr. Arlen Chase, honored each scholarship donor and awardee by name. As they were recognized, they proceeded to the front of the room to have their photo taken together and with Dean Johnson.

After each donor and awardee were celebrated, a short appreciation video was played that expressed the awardee’s gratitude.

From hopeful journalists, to aspiring scientists, the 2014-15 UCF College of Sciences scholarship recipients is a diverse group of gifted students who plan to make a positive impact in countless fields. Many students said that their academic pursuits would not be possible without the generous support of the scholarship donors. The donors continue to leave their mark at UCF by funding some of UCF’s most accomplished students and future innovators.