Polk State and Florida Lottery celebrate Bright Futures scholars, underscoring commitment to affordability and community service

More than 150 students, including 60 Bright Futures scholars, gathered at Polk State College’s Lakeland Campus on Wednesday for a Florida Lottery Bright Futures Scholarships Outreach event that celebrated academic achievement while highlighting the College’s longstanding commitment to affordability and community service. The celebration reinforced Polk State’s mission to prepare students and graduates who are well-positioned to contribute purposefully to their communities and the State of Florida.

The event welcomed students to hear from state leaders about maintaining scholarship eligibility, available resources, and the broader impact of the program, which is funded by Florida Lottery proceeds and has supported more than 1 million students since its inception. Speakers emphasized that Bright Futures not only reduces financial barriers but also requires and rewards community service, aligning with Polk State’s values.

“Today, we celebrate something special: the hard work, discipline, volunteerism, and achievement of our Bright Futures scholars right here at Polk State College. These students have earned one of Florida’s most important scholarships through academic excellence, service, and determination. Their success is a point of pride for our entire College community,” said Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Our students’ achievements not only reflect academic excellence, but also a commitment to serving others and making a difference in their communities.”

Through Polk State’s Where Eagles Soar initiative, the College is emphasizing the importance of community service by connecting students with ways to give back, strengthen their communities, and continue to make a positive impact beyond the classroom.

Caleb Grace, a Nursing student and Bright Futures recipient, shared a personal example of how the community service shaped his path.

“I volunteered at Winter Haven Hospital to complete my Bright Futures community service hours. I expected to fulfill a requirement. Instead, the experience strengthened my interest in nursing and confirmed that I was moving in the right direction,” said Grace. “Bright Futures made it possible for me to pursue that direction.”

Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald D. Dixon encouraged the scholars to stay the course.

“Earning a Bright Futures Scholarship is a tremendous accomplishment, and we want students to make the most of that opportunity,” said Dixon. “We’re here to encourage these students, make sure they understand what it takes to keep their scholarships, and remind them that there are resources available to help them succeed. We want them to stay focused, keep pushing forward, and cross that finish line.”

State University System of Florida Chancellor Ray Rodrigues reinforced the long-term value of the program.

“Bright Futures is an important investment in Florida’s students and their futures,” said Rodrigues. “We want students to take full advantage of this opportunity and continue building the knowledge and skills that will serve them long after graduation.”

The outreach reflects Polk State’s emphasis on making higher education affordable and accessible, while also fostering civic engagement. Through programs like Bright Futures and initiatives such as Where Eagles Soar, the College works to remove financial barriers and equip students with the experiences and values needed to serve Polk County and Florida effectively after graduation.