FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 8, 2025
(EON: Enhanced Online News)– Gain: PICTURES INCLUDED
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Hosts Take Stock in Children Graduation Luncheon to Honor Graduating Seniors
Fort Myers, FL– Last Thursday, May 1st, The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools held its annual Take Stock in Children Graduation Luncheon — a heartwarming event honoring graduating seniors from the Take Stock in Children (TSIC) program. This milestone celebration brought together students, families, mentors, school principals, and district administrators for a special luncheon recognizing the students’ achievements and the bright futures that lie ahead.
Each graduating senior was formally awarded their Take Stock in Children graduation certificate, symbolizing not only the successful completion of the program but also their eligibility to receive a four-year college tuition scholarship, as promised through the TSIC initiative. The luncheon served as a tribute to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of these remarkable young scholars.
The event featured inspiring remarks from Denise Vidal, CEO of Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC), who served as the keynote speaker. Her message encouraged students to pursue their goals with confidence and reminded them of the power of perseverance and community support.
Adding a personal and heartfelt perspective, Caroline Papa, a graduating senior from South Fort Myers High School, took the stage as the event’s student speaker. Caroline reflected on her journey through the TSIC program, the impact of her mentors, and her aspirations for the future—leaving the audience both inspired and proud.
“This luncheon is always a highlight of the school year for The Foundation,” said Marshall T. Bower, President & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “The energy and excitement in the room is palpable. These students have worked hard to fulfill their end of the TSIC agreement. They have engaged with their mentors and College Success Coaches on a regular basis. These students will be our next community leaders. We cannot wait to see the positive impact they will have as responsible members of whatever communities they end up contributing to!”
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools extends its heartfelt thanks to all who attended, supported, and helped make the 2025 Graduation Luncheon a success. Special thanks to Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre for serving as our gracious venue host, and to Suncoast Credit Union, our generous Title Sponsor, for their continued investment in the futures of our students.
About The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, Inc. is a private 501(C)3 organization established in 1986. Its mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of public education in Lee County for students and educators through programs, resources, and experiences made possible through corporate, individual, and educational partnerships. Find us online at www.leeschoolfoundation.org, on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
About Take Stock in Children
Since 1995, Take Stock in Children, a Florida 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has helped to break the cycle of poverty for over 42,000 of Florida’s low-income, at-risk youth by providing scholarships, mentors, and hope. Consistently achieving high school graduation rates that exceed the state average, Take Stock in Children is Florida’s flagship and most successful mentoring and scholarship program. To donate, volunteer, or learn about Take Stock in Children, please visit www.takestockinchildren.org
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