PRESS RELEASE: MAY 16, 2024
SJR State Foundation, donor surprise students with scholarships
Equipped with balloons, collegiate apparel and college mascot Viktor the Viking, Foundation board member Joyce Oliver and the SJR State Prize Patrol recently paid a visit to local high schools to personally award four seniors with scholarships to attend St. Johns River State College this fall.
Established in 2010 in memory of Frank V. Oliver, a philanthropic businessman from Putnam County, the F.V. Oliver Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to students based on financial need and academic merit. Funds can be used for tuition, books, meals, and other educational expenses.
This year’s recipients are Andrew McClellan (Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School), Sheila Perez (Q.I. Roberts Jr.-Sr. High School), Alyssa Turner (Interlachen High School), and Giselle Garcia (Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School).
Oliver, a long-time supporter of SJR State, said she is proud to award the scholarship in her husband’s memory and to “further the students’ academic progress and help them on their way to reaching their goals in life,” Oliver said.
SJR State Foundation Director Kate Adornetto said the scholarships are a reflection of Mr. Oliver's legacy and commitment to the college's mission to educate and empower students for success. "Surprising students with a scholarship brings joy to everyone, and we are thankful to our donors for making that possible."
Need money for college? By completing a single application online, applicants can be considered for multiple scholarships. This year’s application deadline has been extended from April 1 to June 1. Apply today at https://www.sjrstate.edu/scholarships.
The SJR State Foundation offers numerous scholarships funded by the generous contributions of businesses, non-profit entities, and individuals. Interested in giving? Contact the Foundation office at 386-312-4100 or visit https://www.sjrstate.edu/foundation.
The SJR State Foundation’s annual Prize Patrol surprises recipients with scholarships to attend St. Johns River State College in the fall. Clockwise, recipient Giselle Garcia stands with her mother and Foundation Board member/donor Joyce Oliver, Andrew McClellan, Alyssa Turner, members of SJR State’s Foundation and recruiting team join in for the photo. Not pictured is Sheila Perez.