Cypress Cohen, a student at Babcock Ranch High School, was one of only 60 high school seniors nationwide selected as an elite recipient of the highly competitive 2026 Cooke College Scholarship. Presented by the Jack Cooke Foundation and announced April 1, the scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated extraordinary academic achievement and leadership. As a last-dollar award, it supplements all institutional aid by providing recipients with up to $55,000 per year to attend any accredited undergraduate institution. The scholarship is designed to ensure that exceptional students with financial need can pursue and complete their college education without the burden of excessive student debt. In addition to financial support, Cooke College Scholars receive comprehensive advising and enrichment opportunities, including personalized academic guidance, career and graduate school planning, internship and study abroad opportunities as well as access to a national network of scholars and alumni. Scholars may also apply for additional funding to support graduate studies. The 2026 Cooke College Scholars represent students from across 31 states and the District of Columbia, selected from a highly competitive national applicant pool.