Student achievements
• Kelly McDermott, of Lutz, was recognized on the President’s List at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
• Chase Memmer, of Odessa, was named to the Dean’s List at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
• Rachael Williams, of Odessa, received a Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
Faculty recital
Saint Leo University recorded its annual Fall Faculty Music Recital to share with the public.
The recital is about an hour long and features 12 pieces from a wide range of styles, including Western classical selections and others.
Those interested can watch the video for free on the Saint Leo University Music YouTube Channel.
Career workshop
University of South Florida Career Services will offer a virtual career development workshop, “How to Select Your College Major,” on Sept. 29 at 4 p.m., through Microsoft Teams for teens, grades eight to 12 only.
Registration is required.
Scholarship America
Scholarship America, a nonprofit scholarship and education support organization, is accepting applications through Oct. 15, for the 2021 Scholarship America Dream Award.
The program is open to any college student with financial need, who has overcome barriers and has successfully completed at least one year toward their college education.
The scholarships are inclusive of all types of students, from diverse backgrounds, seeking a two-year or four-year degree.
The scholarships are renewable and increase in amount each year.
Scholarship America has awarded more than $2.3 million to 108 students, with scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 based on financial need.
Eligible students can apply online at LearnMore.scholarsapply.org/dreamaward/.
Upon application, students also will be notified about additional scholarship programs that they may be eligible for.
Social justice series
Saint Leo University will present a “Courageous Conversations” series, examining social justice issues, through Zoom. These free, virtual discussions will look at topics included in Bryan Stevenson’s book, “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption,” from different perspectives across multiple disciplines.
The next session is set for Oct. 15, and will focus on social work/social justice. Upcoming conversations include:
• Nov. 19: criminal justice/ethics
• Jan. 21: business/nonprofit organizations
• Feb. 18: religion/spirituality
• March 18: education
All sessions are from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at SaintLeo.zoom.us/j/94551952591.
For information, email Nikki Heister, special programs manager, Department of Public Safety Administration, at .
Reaccreditation issued
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) has received official notice regarding the reaffirmation of its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the southern states.
The reaccreditation committee, comprised of educators from throughout the association’s region of 11 states, visited PHSC in October 2019. The committee placed special emphasis on evaluating PHSC’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP).
During the next five years, PHSC’s QEP, Bridge to Success: The College Readiness Experience, will improve student success by providing engaging, meaningful, and relevant learning experiences in four specific areas of college readiness: problem solving, intellectual openness, time management, and persistence.
Out of 79 standards, PHSC received no recommendations – a rare accomplishment with accreditation outcomes. The college received two recommendations on its QEP based on learning outcomes, which were addressed in the Response Report and accepted by SACSCOC. PHSC’s next reaffirmation of its accreditation will take place in 2030, unless otherwise notified.
Shoe & Sock Drive underway
The fifth annual Two Good Soles Shoe and Sock Drive is underway, as the Pasco County government and constitutional offices work together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County schools, through Oct. 23.
Donations can be dropped off to the collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations, and the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller, Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices countywide.
Last year’s record-setting drive resulted in 3,057 pairs of shoes and 13,285 pairs of socks.
Items collected will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October, directly benefiting local students.
For information, visit PascoCountyFl.net/civicalerts.
WREC 2021 scholarships
The Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) every year offers scholarships to high school students. The students are selected by local guidance counselors and WREC personnel.
Applications for the 2021-2022 school year will be available after Dec. 1, and must be postmarked no later than March 26, 2021.
To apply, students must:
- be a high school senior and maintain a 2.0 GPA
- be a dependent of a WREC member
- be a bona-fide resident within the service area of WREC for at least one year prior to Dec. 31.
- plan to attend an in-state college, university or technical school full-time (minimum 12 credit hours per semester)
- keep a 2.0 GPA each semester (or higher if mandated by the institution) to maintain eligibility
Applications can be found at any local WREC office, high school guidance office or online at WREC.net.
Successful candidates will receive $1,375 per semester ($11,000 maximum) for undergraduate studies.
