Foundation celebrates local scholarship recipients at 2nd annual reception

Education can change the direction of a person’s life and create a range of opportunities far beyond what students may envision today. That message, shared by community leaders and former recipients, resonated throughout the Community Foundation of South Lake County’s second annual Scholarship Reception May 16.

The event brought together students, families, donors and board members to recognize scholarship recipients and celebrate the role community investment plays in helping students pursue higher education.

Rather than focusing solely on grade point averages, the Foundation’s scholarship program looks for qualities that do not always appear on a transcript, including character, compassion, growth and perseverance.

“As a community foundation, education remains one of the core pillars of our mission because we know that scholarships do far more than help pay for tuition,” said executive director Laura Michalski. “They open doors. They ease burdens. They create confidence. And sometimes, they completely change the trajectory of a person’s life.”

Among those honored was Nena Mitchell, who attended with her mother, Terrette Mitchell. Mitchell received a Clermont High School alumni scholarship and plans to attend University of Central Florida to study health sciences before becoming a pediatric physician assistant.

Isaiah Owens, recipient of the Donald C. Wickham Scholarship, acknowledged the significance of the scholarship’s connection to Don Wickham Drive and the area’s healthcare presence, viewing it as a meaningful backdrop as he prepares to enter nursing in Georgia and contribute to the region’s medical community.

For Hailey Bronson, the moment carried deep local roots. Bronson, whose family’s ties to Clermont span five generations, attended the celebration with her parents, Ryan and Dusty Bronson. She also received a Clermont High School alumni scholarship and plans to attend Lake-Sumter State College to study nursing before eventually earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

Board member Sheri Spivey, representing event sponsor Cemex, encouraged students to remain open to unexpected opportunities in life and career.

“Investing in further education by pursuing a degree or certification in a skilled occupation will give you opportunities to pursue careers that you may not even be thinking about now or may not even exist yet,” she said.

Spivey also reminded students to prioritize physical and mental health while navigating college life and to seek help when needed.

The Foundation also shared remarks from former scholarship recipient Erin Dow. Dow, a 2025 graduate of South Lake High School and recipient of the Julian and Ruby Ann (Cherry) Rowe Scholarship, said scholarships helped make her first year at Lake-Sumter State College more manageable and meaningful.

In a written message, Dow encouraged incoming students to join campus groups and stay connected, especially those taking online classes. She said scholarships and events like the celebration help students build relationships and share experiences as they navigate college life together.

For more information on scholarships, visit Scholarships – Community Foundation Of South Lake