scholarships

Congratulations, 2026 heart of the City Foundation Scholarship recipients!

Frances

Gray

Allison Wolfe Scholarship

Seminole State College & University of Central Florida

Katie Grace

Hanks

Allison Wolfe Scholarship

University of Florida

Yosumanbonu

Olimova

Ann Wilson Divine Scholarship

Covenant College

Cole

Spencer

Ann Wilson Divine Scholarship

Flagler College

Phoebe

Williamson

Annie Bell Johnson Nursing Scholarship

Barry University

Heidi

Towle

Beryl & Betty Windsor Educator Scholarship

University of South Florida

Mary Caroline

Kolar

Bookhardt-Wilson Music Scholarship

Wake Forest University

Benjamin

Willsey

David Swanson Pastoral Scholarship

Reformed Theological Seminary

Laila

Schuck

Dr. Glen R. & Rita B. Pierson Scholarship

Palm Beach Atlantic University

   CJ   

Wagner

Dr. Glen R. & Rita B. Pierson Scholarship

Florida Institute of Technology

Katherine

Shiflet

Dr. James Porter, Jr. Scholarship

Southern New Hampshire University

Taylor

Talesnick

Dr. James Porter, Jr. Scholarship

Advent Health University

  Ava  

Thigpen

Emma Caldwell Scholarship

Florida State University

Charles

Thorp

General W. E. “Joe” & Ruth T. Potter Scholarship

Florida State University

Pierson

Hewitt

Glenn & Phyllis Fuller Scholarship

University of Florida

Henry

Burden

Hames Family Scholarship

Georgia Southern University

Joseph

Bongiorno

Hester-Hill-Owsley Scholarship

Florida State University

Alexandra

Thorp

Hester-Hill-Owsley Scholarship

Florida State University

Evelyn

Basso

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

University of Florida

Ciaran

Braton

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Southeastern University

Charles

Clendenin

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Baylor University

  Emma  

Fetter

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

University of Florida

Beckett

Gimenez

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Valencia College

  Joel  

Hietala

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

University of Central Florida

Jeremiah

Holcomb

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Seminole State College

David

  Hull  

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Georgia Institute of Technology

Perry

Johnson

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Florida Gateway College

Margaret

   Lee   

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

SUNY Cobleskill

William “LUke”

Palmer

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Auburn University

Ellis

Parker

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Florida State University

Connor

Summer

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

University of Central Florida

Austin

Taylor

Heart of the City Foundation General Scholarship

Santa Fe College

  ben  

Batterson

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Florida

Kate

Batterson

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of South Carolina

   Ben   

Bryan

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Alabama

Anna

Wells Burden

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

Samford University

Clara

Bywater

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

College of Charleston

Lauren

DeOrio

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of South Carolina Upstate

Luke

Easterling

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Florida

Ella

Garcia

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

Florida State University

Amelia Grace

Greninger

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Tampa

Chapel

Heron

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Florida

Watson

Hewitt

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Florida

 Grant 

 Ickes 

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

Catawba College

Emma Grace

Ramb

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

Auburn University

Joseph

Scheck

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Florida

Harrison

Summer

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

University of Florida

Natnael

Daniel

Jim & Diane Cook Scholarship

Florida A&M University

Javaun

Logan

Jim & Diane Cook Scholarship

Florida A&M University

Ann Elizabeth

Bryan

Kathleen H. & Kenneth H. Kraft, Jr. Scholarship

University of South Carolina

Mallory

Smith

Kathleen H. & Kenneth H. Kraft, Jr. Scholarship

Georgia Institute of Technology

Kemisie

Brockman

Lee Family Scholarship

Florida State University

 Andy 

 Ward 

Lucille & Robert McCutchen Christian Ministerial Scholarship & Mabelle O’Neal Christian Education Scholarship

Fuller Theological Seminary

Lisa

Brockman

Mabelle O’Neal Christian Education Scholarship

Kairos University

Matthew

Pacheco

Mabelle O’Neal Christian Education Scholarship

Reformed Theological Seminary

Addison

Taylor

Teresa Jefford Scholarship

University of Florida

Jennifer

Vais

Teresa Jefford Scholarship

Samford University

Selected

Student(s)

from The

Christ School

Elizabeth Madsen Sefcik Memorial Scholarship & Robert A. Robertson Memorial scholarship

Selected

Student(s)

from The

Weekday School

Robert A. Robertson Memorial scholarship

Our Scholarship funds

 

bookhardt-Wilson music scholarship

This scholarship fund was started in memory of Jesse "Jack" Bookhardt—who was very involved with the music program at FPCO until his unexpected death on a youth chorus trip—and Jack and Marion Wilson.

The Caldwell Family Scholarship

In 2006, the Emma Caldwell Scholarship Fund was established to honor an impactful and compassionate teacher at Howard Middle School for many years. Since, it has been renamed to The Caldwell Family Scholarship Fund as a legacy to the entire family.

Emma came from Connecticut to Rollins College in Winter Park to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in education. While at Rollins she met and married Clifford Caldwell of Orlando and they had a son, Jack Caldwell, a long time member of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. For years she attended First Presbyterian Church with her son and his family, joining the church and actively participating in the McNutt- Hill Sunday school class.

After receiving her teaching certification she taught 7th and 8th grade math and science, a career that lasted for over 30 years. She enjoyed her students, often providing additional tutoring for those who were having difficulty in class. A memorable event in her life was she taught a budding astronaut, John Young, math and science when he attended Memorial Jr. High School. During the John Young Day celebration after his successful flight to the moon he named her as being one that had most influenced his interest in math and science which led to his career as a pilot and astronaut. His comment lead to her being interviewed on camera with the major networks. A special event on a special day. During her life she always took a special interest in those who were willing to work hard and not give up when a certain subject may be more difficult for them. It is hoped that this scholarship will be a fitting memorial for a very loved and special person.

jim & diane cook scholarship

The Jim and Diane Cook Scholarship Fund was established in 2000 through the generosity of Dawn Thompson Neff in memory of her mother, Dorothy ("Dot") Thompson.

Dawn deeply valued the teaching ministry. Dawn attended Jim Cook's SITS class and Sunday School class, often reviewing her notes and lessons with her mother, Dot, who lived in Mississippi. Through Jim Cook's faithful teaching and spiritual guidance, Dawn witnessed her mother experience a peaceful and beautiful transition from this life into the arms of Jesus Christ. Dawn remains convinced that Jim's ministry was instrumental in helping prepare Dot for her death, which occurred on Good Friday.

To honor her mother's life and faith, Dawn established this endowed scholarship in the names of Jim and Diane Cook, recognizing Jim's ministry and spiritual impact on both her and her mother.

The Jim and Diane Cook Scholarship provides scholarship assistance for post-secondary education or training to urban or inner-city students who demonstrate aptitude, character, and desire, but who lack access to sufficient financial resources for fulfillment of their educational goals. This includes, but is not limited to, college, vocational training, technical training, apprenticeships, certification programs, and other career-preparation opportunities.

 

ann wilson divine scholarship

Former board member Russ Divine and his brother Bill started this fund in 2014 in loving memory of their mother, Ann Wilson Divine, who was an educator and had a true love for learning. They felt like it was the greatest way they could honor her. This scholarship is dedicated to lifting up students who are studying English, literature, creative writing, and education. 

Our readers, writers, and educators pour so much love and life into our communities—whether through sharing their art, empowering other artists to gift us their talents, or educating the next generations. We’re proud to grant this scholarship to deserving students each year, to continue the legacy of learning Ann Wilson Divine left to her sons and to us.

See video about Ann Wilson Divine here.

Glenn C. & Phyllis Fuller Scholarship

Glenn Fuller loved his work as an aerospace engineer. Passionate about his work and the subjects of math, science, and engineering, he was always excited to share his knowledge and encourage others in their math studies. He not only loved solving challenging math problems, he could fix most anything around the house! Phyllis Fuller was a supportive wife who not only benefitted from a husband who enjoyed fixing things, but who encouraged his career and was devoted to service at First Presbyterian. They both especially loved spending time with their children and  beloved grandchildren. 

The Glenn C. and Phyllis Fuller Scholarship Fund is created to empower students who are pursuing careers in math, science, and engineering. Their family felt this fund was the perfect way to lovingly honor their memory by investing in future generations of engineers, scientists, and mathematicians.

general scholarship

This scholarship fund is for any student pursuing further education.

stacey guetzloe weekday school scholarship

In 2006, Doug Guetzloe started this scholarship as a Christmas gift to his wife Stacey, who has served as a Weekday School volunteer, committee chairperson, and member of the Advisory Board. The Weekday School has meant a lot to them over the years, with all three of their children having attended and having been shaped by the Weekday School. They want to invest in the education of children as well as encourage others to support the school they love.

Hames Family Scholarship

This scholarship fund was started in 2005 because of Cliff Hames’s belief in the importance of education. He believed that everyone should get the chance to pursue an education.

hester-Hill-Owsley scholarship

Carl J. Owsley lived a long life of 90 years and worked professionally as a mechanical engineer for the Naval Civil Service. He lived in Orlando for most of his adult life, was a dedicated member of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando (FPCO) and cared deeply about faith and family.

Robert J. Hester was an Orlando citrus grower and the founder and owner of ABC Fruit Co. on South Orange Avenue. Born in Pittsburgh, he passed away on April 14, 1994, at the age of 57. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando and of the Sigma Chi fraternity at the University of Florida.

Although Sarah Boon Hill lost her battle with cancer in 1984 at the tender age of fourteen, her sweet life is honored by this scholarship. Her family wanted to aid deserving undergraduate students who show the same traits as their beloved Sarah Boon Hill. Specifically, applicants demonstrate courage, perseverance and involvement with FPCO, whether as active Covenant Partners or youth participants.

 

beryl & betty windsor educator scholarship

Beryl and Betty Windsor were educators in Orange County, Florida for many, many years. They both had an undeniable passion for young people, always wanting to encourage them in their learning, and they were especially compassionate towards the students who struggled. They strived to lift up every student.

As a way to further pour into future generations of educators, Betty often welcomed educator interns from the University of Central Florida into her classroom as well. She so enjoyed the opportunity to mentor them as they learned to lead and encourage their own classrooms of incredible students. 

This scholarship fund was started by Beryl and Betty’s family in their honor, to raise up future generations of educators with the same spirit that Beryl and Betty nurtured throughout their careers and lives. 

Irene Lester Miller Scholarship

Irene Lester Miller was a school teacher with a huge heart for her city—she wanted her life to be a ministry to the city, not only in her present, but also in our future. Her desire was to serve her entire community in whatever ways she was able. In all things, she believed in excellence, and as an educator, she encouraged her students to strive for excellence as well. In their studies. In their faith. 

Former Heart of the City Foundation Board Member Donald Brown remembers, “She would get up early in the morning and get her Wall Street Journal, and by 10 o’clock she would be calling her investment advisors, asking questions about what was in the Wall Street Journal. I knew I had to get up before her so I could answer her questions.” With a hearty laugh, he adds, “She never said goodbye. You were talking to her on the phone and when she got through what she wanted to say, she’d just hang up. She was a sweet, sweet lady. Very, very special.”

Irene was the first major donor to the Heart of the City Foundation, giving essentially all she had when she passed away. One of her passions was for future students to continue to be encouraged towards excellence, and this scholarship was established as a part of her legacy.

Elizabeth masden sefcik memorial scholarship

After the passing of their daughter Elizabeth in 1996, The Christ School founders Joe and Eugenia Sefcik started this endowment and scholarship in her beloved memory. Elizabeth was born with a severe chromosomal disorder, expected to live a very short life. The few short weeks Joe and Eugenia had with Elizabeth were a blessing, and the blessing of her life was something they wanted to share with other children.

allison wolfe scholarship

Allison Wolfe Best was born and raised in Orlando, Florida with her two sisters. After she graduated from Trinity Preparatory School, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Business Administration from Emory University and her CPA certification. Once she settled in North Carolina, she used her incredible energy and compassion to volunteer with local initiatives and serve on committees. She genuinely cared about people and wanted the best for everyone in her community. At the age of 49, after courageously fighting ovarian cancer, she passed away. 

Her father, Claude Wolfe, a lifelong First Presbyterian Church of Orlando member, wanted to do something to honor her life. He decided that establishing a scholarship fund in her name was the perfect way, knowing that the fund would help hopeful students pursue their dreams each year. This scholarship fund is a persevering testimony of the love and kindness that Allison expressed throughout her life in service to others. 

glen r. & rita b. pierson scholarship

dr. james porter, jr. scholarship

This scholarship fund was started by family and friends in memory of Dr James Porter Jr in 1992.

 

general w. e. “joe” potter scholarship

This scholarship fund was started in 1990 by friends and family in memory of General W E “Joe” Potter, so that every FPCO member can have a chance to pursue further education.

teresa jefford scholarship

This scholarship was created by Teresa Jefford’s family in honor of her memory. Teresa was incredibly thoughtful, always reaching out to her family and friends to make sure they knew she was thinking about them. She was a special needs teacher, who stepped back from teaching when her illness became too debilitating, but who never stopped teaching in the little ways she still could. In the face of her illness, she stayed hopeful and joyful, having faith in her Lord and Savior that her health would one day be restored.

See video about Teresa Jefford here.

annie bell Johnson nursing scholarship

Annie Bell Johnson started this scholarship as a legacy gift when she passed away in 2009. She left this scholarship to empower students in the field of nursing, to pour into future generations.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree from Stetson University and her master’s degree in nursing education from the University of Colorado, she went on to become an incredible nursing educator. She devoted herself to her family, to her work in which she touched so many lives, and to her church, First Presbyterian Church of Orlando.

Her grand niece, Emily Dunaway, shared in Annie Bell’s obituary, “Annie Bell always had the warmest smile at our gatherings and such sweet eyes that always let me know how much she cared about being there and spending time with all of us.” Annie Bell was also as scholarly as she was spiritual and kind, enjoying a wonderful collection of the greatest poets and writers.

Benbow-Davis-Hewitt-Wells Trade Scholarship

Not every career path begins in a four-year college classroom. For many young adults, a trade certification, technical education, or apprenticeship can open the door to a fulfilling career, financial independence, and a lifetime of opportunity.

The Benbow-Davis-Hewitt-Wells Trade Scholarship was established to make these opportunities more accessible by providing financial support to individuals pursuing vocational training, trade certifications, or apprenticeship programs.

As the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow, investing in the next generation of skilled tradespeople is more important than ever. This scholarship recognizes the value of these career paths and helps remove financial barriers that might otherwise stand in the way.

This scholarship is made possible through the generosity and shared commitment of five faithful covenant partners and their families: Caren Hewitt and Dennis Benbow; a legacy gift from Howard “Ed” Davis and Sherry Davis; and Phyllis Wells, in memory of Ernest Wells. Together, their generosity represents an investment in the aspirations of individuals and the strength and future of our workforce and community.

allison wolfe scholarship

Allison Wolfe Best was born and raised in Orlando, Florida, with her two sisters. After graduating from Trinity Preparatory School, she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from Emory University and her CPA certification. Once she settled in North Carolina, she used her incredible energy and compassion to volunteer with local initiatives and serve on committees. She genuinely cared about people and wanted the best for everyone in her community. At the age of 49, after courageously fighting ovarian cancer, she passed away. 

Her father, Claude Wolfe, a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, wanted to honor her life. He decided that establishing a scholarship fund in her name was the perfect way to honor her life, knowing it would help hopeful students pursue their dreams each year. This scholarship fund is a lasting testament to the love and kindness Allison showed throughout her life in service to others. 

glen r. & rita b. pierson scholarship

david swanson pastoral scholarship

kathleen h. kraft & kenneth h. kraft, jr family scholarship

This scholarship fund was started by Kathleen and Kenneth Kraft in 2013.

 

lee family scholarship

lucille & robert mccutchen christian ministerial scholarship

This scholarship fund was started in 1994 by Lucille McCutchen in memory of her husband Robert McCutchen.

robert a. robertson Memorial scholarship

This scholarship fund was started in 1995 as a legacy gift by Robert A Robertson, better known by his friends and family as “Bob” or “Robbie.” Bob was an influential and generous member of FPCO and HOCF. For 58 years, he served FPCO and HOCF in many capacities—as a deacon, an elder, and the financial chair as well as the President of the Trustees at HOCF. One of his strong beliefs was that education is vital to creating equal opportunity and a better world, empowering those who have little to rise as future leaders.

Are you a student?

We here at the Heart of the City Foundation are passionate about encouraging and empowering students who love Jesus Christ—we believe it is vital that we support the future influencers of our church, city, and world. If you are or someone you love is a student—Weekday School, The Christ School, undergraduate, graduate, or vocational/technical school—we would love to receive your application for a scholarship. The deadline to apply was April 1, 2026.

Please note that you will need to have two letters of recommendation and your official transcript emailed to us at scholarships@heartofthecityfoundation.org or mailed to us at 106 E Church Street, Orlando, FL 32801 by April 1, 2026.

One recommendation must come from a First Presbyterian Church of Orlando staff member. The other must come from a non-family member who knows you in an academic, professional, ministry, or community setting. In one paragraph, please have your recommenders tell us how they know you and describe up to three qualities that best reflect who you are and why they believe you are deserving of this scholarship.  

If we have not received your recommendations and your official transcript by April 1, 2026, we will not be able to consider your application.

The scholarship application is now closed for 2026. Thank you.