18 PSC students awarded Sandy Sansing Scholarships

 

Michaela Rosales has a clear plan for her life. The Pensacola State College graduate earned an associate degree in August and chose to continue her education in the College’s Electrocardiograph Technician Program this fall.

 

The Sansing Scholars Endowed Scholarship helped make it possible.

 

“I’m on track to graduate again in May 2024, and am so thankful for the scholarship,” said the Anchorage, Alaska native who plans to earn a doctorate in pediatric pathology eventually. “I want to work at Ochsner’s or the CDC (federal Centers for Disease Control).”

 

Rosales is one of 18 PSC students to receive scholarships funded by Sandy Sansing in 2023. Other scholarship recipients are Shayla Adams, Akiyah Alden, Tamala Allen, Breanna Denmark, Megan Doan, Tyric Flowers, Siena Foster, Hannah Green, Cynthia Izzo, Ariana Murray, Precious Moorer, Pamela Perceval, Brenden Shipman, Constance Stewart, Kori Vertz, Gary Welch and Keary White. Based on financial need, the scholarship may cover tuition, fees, and books. Recipients must have a 2.0 grade point average and be U.S. citizens or resident aliens.

 

During a pizza lunch held September 28, Sansing told the recipients that the scholarships are an investment in their futures. Sansing knows the value of scholarships firsthand, as he himself received support while attending Pensacola Junior College and the University of West Florida.

 

“I’ve been blessed. I want you to be blessed. I’m a Christian and believe in giving back,” said Sansing, offering life advice to the students during the informal meetup. “I believe in Luke 12:48, ‘To whom much is given, much is required.’”

 

Sansing is a man of his word, as he and his family generously support numerous charities and causes throughout our community.

 

Sansing, who owns and co-owns automotive dealerships in Florida and Alabama, said his first job as a Jitney Jungle bag boy taught him that “everyone is important!” He relayed how he used to earn $15 to $20 in tips on weekends and would deposit that money in the bank each Monday.

 

“In life, there will be challenges, but go for it! Take risks, not on stupid things. There will be failure – you’re not going to win every time,” explained Sansing, who encouraged the students to pursue their dreams.

 

“Apply yourself in school! Make the best grades that you can.”

 

Since Sansing’s first scholarship was established at the College in 2002, more than 1,180 Pensacola State students have become Sansing Scholars and received a share of half a million dollars, said Pensacola State President Ed Meadows. Sansing’s endowed scholarship will continue to help PSC students into perpetuity.

“I can’t thank Sandy enough for all he does for Pensacola State and our students,” Meadows said. “Not only does he offer financial support to our students, but he also provides life advice to them.”

 

Gary Welch, an engineering technology and advanced manufacturing double major, was thankful for the scholarship.

 

“It helps to have this additional funding for my education,” said Welch, who also balances time as a work-study student in the PSC Student Engagement and Leadership Office.

 

“It is gratifying to know that my hard work is not going unnoticed, and that people are willing to help me reach my goals. I hope Mr. Sansing knows what a difference he is making in my life and the lives of other PSC students.”

Other scholarship recipients agreed with Welch.

 

“Were it not for this scholarship, I would not be here,” said Cynthia Izzo, who is studying to become a registered nurse.

 

Keary White, an English teacher with the Department of Juvenile Justice, is also enrolled in the nursing program. “It’s never too late to follow your dreams,” she added.