LAKELAND, Fla. – The Florida Polytechnic University Foundation, Inc. has received a $50,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation for scholarships. The funds will be directed towards the University’s competitive scholarship program to provide financial support to qualified students.
The Duke Energy Foundation grants are dedicated to enhancing educational programs focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), childhood reading proficiency and workforce development.
“Supporting educational initiatives is an integral mission of the Duke Energy Foundation,” said Harry Sideris, Duke Energy Florida president. “This grant provides Florida Polytechnic University students with the opportunity to realize their full potential and create models of success that will have implications for years to come.”
A check was presented to University President Dr. Randy K. Avent during a small ceremony on campus Friday, July 14. Each scholarship offered to students will be on a variable scale from $1,000 to $16,000.
“It is important to ensure that financial constraints do not hold back our students,” said Dr. Avent. “This institution is focused on graduating highly-skilled experts who bring new thinking and innovation to the economy of the State of Florida. Scholarships like the ones made possible by Duke Energy allow us to do just that. My most sincere thanks goes to Duke and our Foundation Board for this gift which will directly impact the lives of our students.”
The Florida Polytechnic University Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization governed by a Board of Directors, whose members play a significant role in the development of the University as a major educational, cultural and economic resource. The foundation is responsible for creating community and industry investment to support the University and to provide financial support for our students throughout their academic career.
“Our Foundation is thrilled to receive this grant,” said Ford Heacock, President and Owner of Heacock Insurance and Foundation Board Chair. “Through the support of generous donors, like the Duke Energy Foundation, we can continue to enhance the opportunities available for Florida Poly students who will transform the future of technology and impact Florida’s economy.”
The Duke Energy Foundation offers more than $30 million, and approximately $3 million in Florida, annually in charitable gifts to support and address the needs of the communities where its customers live and work. The foundation’s education focus spans kindergarten to career, particularly science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), early childhood literacy and workforce development. It also supports the environment and community impact initiatives, including arts and culture. For more information, visit www.duke-energy.com/foundation.