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Florida Education Foundation Hosts Redesigned Sunshine State Scholars program
A BRIEF HISTORY:
The Sunshine State Scholars program originated in Florida in 1997 as a math and science competition. Founded by Dr. William Caldwell of the University of North Florida, the program brought together 12thgrade students from throughout the state to compete in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). However, many of these students did not remain in Florida for their post secondary education and the the Florida Education Foundation resolved to stop the flow of intellectual talent from the Sunshine State.
CHANGING THE FOCUS:
We asked each of the state’s 67 school districts to identify their top 11th grade student in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These students along with their parents and a teacher who had been a significant influence for them, travelled to Orlando for an extraordinary two-day program.
In addition to bringing together the scholars to be honored, we also invited representatives from Florida’s colleges and universities to come to meet with the students and talk about the opportunities that await them right here in their home state.
THE OUTCOME:
Over 300 guests participated in the program which was presented by the Florida Education Foundation, the Florida Department of Education, the Division of Florida Colleges, and the State University System of Florida, was co-sponsored by corporate partners Helios Education Foundation, Gulf Power, Universal Studios, Florida Trend Magazine, and the Florida Lottery.
The event opened with a welcome reception where select schools showcased the latest innovations and discoveries in STEM-related research. Students had the opportunity to talk with researchers and see the practical applications for those formulas and equations they’d been studying in the classroom.
On day two, the program included a dynamic appearance by the president of Universal Creative, Mark Woodbury. There's nothing like behind-the-scenes insight from the guy who created the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to get aspiring young scientists and engineers excited about career possibilities.
More importantly, there were inspiring words of praise and encouragement from Florida’s education leaders and corporate sponsors, including Chancellors Will Holcombe, Frances Haithcock, and Frank Brogan.
The recruitment fair featured 31 colleges and universities from throughout Florida who explained the exciting opportunities that await these students. A post-event survey revealed that the Scholars returned home with a heightened awareness and genuine enthusiasm about the myriad possibilities for STEM-related study and careers right here in Florida.
TO LEARN ABOUT THE UPCOMING 2012 PROGRAM, CLICK HERE.
See the complete list of the 2011 Scholars and their schools
