Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Honors Sixteen Local Students with Prestigious Scholarship Awards

Pensacola, Fla. – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is proud to announce sixteen local students enrolled in our mentoring programs have qualified for scholarships, providing vital support as they take the next step toward higher education.

These scholarships are made possible through a remarkable partnership between Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), Florida Prepaid College Foundation and our Florida Big Brothers Big Sisters Association. In 2023, FPL partnered with the Foundation to contribute $4.2 million in scholarships for students from some of Florida's most underprivileged areas. This initiative will provide 1,000 students with two-year scholarships over four years. FPL's $2.1 million contribution was matched by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, representing the largest single investment in the Path to Prosperity Scholarship Program since its start in 2021. This statewide initiative, supported by the Florida Chamber Foundation, focuses on combating childhood poverty by expanding access to higher education.

"Through this partnership, FPL is honored to support the bright futures these students have worked hard to secure," said J.T. Young, VP and General Manager of FPL Northwest region. "Every day, Florida Power & Light Company is committed to powering strong communities by creating opportunities and giving back. We believe economic constraints shouldn't limit great potential and hope some of these talented students will join the FPL family someday."

The Florida Prepaid College Foundation and Florida Chamber Foundation partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida and other organizations to identify deserving students. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida supported local high school participants throughout the application process, and this year, sixteen were selected to receive this incredible opportunity. These recipients can use their scholarships at Florida's public colleges and universities, as well as technical and vocational schools.

"Being a part of Big Brothers Big Sisters has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life," said Darryen Busbee, a 2025 graduate of Acceleration Academy and scholarship recipient who plans to attend Pensacola State College for phlebotomy and nursing. "My Big Brother David has supported me through tough times, helping me set goals and push through academic and personal challenges. This scholarship eases financial stress and reminds me that my hard work is paying off."

"Partnering with FPL brings added impact to the work we do," says BBBS NWFL President and CEO, Paula Shell. "These scholarships open doors that might have otherwise remained closed for our Littles. It's inspiring to witness how this support is helping shape their futures in such meaningful ways."

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Florida Power & Light Company for their continued investment in Florida's youth and their unwavering support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida.