Pictured: The 2024 Selby Scholars. Photo courtesy of The Selby Foundation.

The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation has named 45 new Selby Scholars, outstanding students who are eligible for up to four years of a renewable scholarship award to their chosen accredited college or university. Twenty-four Scholars are first gen students, the first in their families to attend college. Graduating high schools in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties, students are engaged in their communities and plan to use their education to help others. Many Scholars plan to major in STEAM fields including mechanical engineering, food and nutrition science, computer science, bioengineering, aerospace engineering, and chemistry and more specifically, in health-related fields including nursing and behavioral cognitive neuroscience. Others will pursue degrees in business, finance, journalism, and other disciplines. The Selby Foundation scholarship program is unique, offering “last dollar funding” to students that is personalized based on individual student need and financial aid. Annual support varies and can increase for many, as single-year scholarships from other providers are not renewed. Throughout their experience in undergraduate school, Selby Scholars also receive access to special opportunities such as mentor matching with a professional in their desired field of study; education sessions to help students succeed in life, studies, and work; and options for a Student Emergency Persistence Fund for certain expenses that may prevent students from remaining enrolled. College students in the 2020 class of Selby Scholars have either graduated from college this year or graduated early. Some are pursuing advanced degrees, while others are entering the workforce or military service. The Selby Foundation is the legacy of Bill and Marie Selby, two caring people who wanted others to have access to the same opportunities they experienced. Established in 1955, the Foundation has an expansive history of supporting students in post-secondary academic success through scholarships and nonprofits in community gains through capital investments. Susie Bowie is President & CEO. Susan Hines is Board Chair. Learn more online at SelbyFdn.org.

Pictured: The 2024 Selby Scholars. Photo courtesy of The Selby Foundation.