Follett Higher Education Group, Palm Beach State College’s longtime business partner, is giving $125,000 over five years for a new scholarship to help students with tuition and other educational expenses.
The first round of Follett Higher Education Group scholarships will target students who work in the hospitality and service industry, many of whom have been displaced because of the pandemic and are in school retooling their skills. Scholarships are for $1,000 each, and the deadline to apply is June 15.
“Community Colleges play an important role in educating students of various educational needs and backgrounds in the very places where students live, serve and contribute. They not only prepare students for a continued adult life of learning but support the professional development of people who influence and create change impacting the growth of their community,’’ said Todd Litzsinger, chairman/president of Follett. “Palm Beach State College embodies this community position, and Follett is excited to provide scholarships to support the students there.”
Students can apply for the Follett Higher Education Group scholarships through the PBSC Foundation. They are open to full-time and part-time students with a minimum 2.5 grade point average and financial need.
David Rutherford, vice president of advancement and executive director of the Palm Beach State College Foundation, which oversees more than 200 private scholarships, said he appreciates Follett Higher Education Group for expanding its support for students. “These scholarships greatly benefit the students we serve, particularly those affected by the current circumstances. They help us fulfill our mission to transform lives and strengthen this community.”
Follett has operated PBSC’s campus bookstores since 2000. In addition to providing new scholarships, the company has been a sponsor of the Foundation’s annual golf tournament benefiting scholarships.
To apply for the Follett Higher Education Group scholarships and Foundation scholarships, visit www.palmbeachstate.edu/foundation/student-scholarships/default.aspx.