By Lewis C. Matusow
The Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes, one of South Florida’s most active community service organizations, recently presented $20,000 in college scholarships to 19 local high school seniors. “Being able to help students fulfill their dream of attending college is an incredible experience,” said Nathalee Gordon, president of the club. “When we assist the future leaders of tomorrow attend college, it is an investment in the future of the Ft. Lauderdale community.”
The 19 college-bound students, representing 10 high schools throughout Broward County, received their recognition with nearly 60 people, including proud parents, attending the ceremony.
The scholarship recipients, their college and major are: Mya Spence (University of Central Florida, Political Science); Trenton Etienne, (Florida Polytechnic University, Mechanical Engineering); Jia Hicks (Barry University, Nursing); Dayonna Tulloch (Nova Southeastern University, Pre-Med); Reagan Pinkston (Florida A&M University, Cardiopulmonary Science); Tiana Clarke (University of West Florida, Social Work); Chayse Emery (Florida A&M University, Occupational Therapy); Isa Ahmed (University of Central Florida, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering); Annishka Foster (Florida A&M University, Biology/Pre-Med); Josh Lee (Broward College, Computer Science); Sophya Eugene (Broward College, Pre-Veterinary); Geneva Occean (Broward College, Nursing); Jordan Oquendo (Florida Atlantic University, Psychology); Gabrielle Delucien (Hollins University, Neuroscience); Natalia Conte (Ave Maria University, Communications); Victoria Damaso (University of Florida, Biochemistry/Pre-Med); Loussica Florestal (Broward College, Criminal Justice); Chloe Russ (Florida A & M University, Animal Science); Leanessa Taylor (George Washington University, Forensic Psychology).
In addition to the scholarships, the Club also supported a variety of community-based organizations such as Christmas in July, SOS Children’s Village, The Salvation Army Fort Lauderdale, and Reddies Place of Safety in Jamaica. Including the scholarships, the Club distributed a total of $31,000.
The Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes, one of more than 200 Kiwanis Clubs in the Florida District of Kiwanis, has been able to support its wide variety of charitable donations due to its Annual Grand Charity Ball. In 28 years, the ball has generated more than $700,000 for college scholarships.
For Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes membership information, or to participate in one of its upcoming impactful community service projects, visit Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes-Kids Need Kiwanis, email ContactKiwanis@gmail.com or phone (954) 822-3883.