Published May 22, 2024
Melissa Cole, Pensacola State College Foundation
In his siblings’ eyes, Bryan Allen (pictured above on right) is a man who has always given to others with the entirety of his being, and who will always show up to support others when needed. Those who know Bryan would likely unanimously agree that he has the heart to protect and help those who cannot do so for themselves and the willingness to follow through when duty calls.
Whether it is volunteering at community events, offering a helping hand to his neighbors, or simply being there for friends and family, Bryan’s presence is a perpetual source of support and encouragement. His commitment to making a difference is evident in everything he does.
From a young age, Bryan and his siblings were raised to take pride in developing a strong work ethic and to value helping others; especially if that meant going the extra mile to help others learn how to help themselves. The Allen family values of generosity, kindness, and a giving spirit have come to life in Bryan and caused a ripple effect that extends far beyond his immediate circle to touch countless lives in meaningful ways. This ripple effect has proven to many of the people who know Bryan that the world can be a better place little-by-little when we allow change to create more positive change.
In recognition of her brother’s unwavering selflessness, Bryan’s older sister, Michelle Lawyer (pictured above on left), chose to establish the Bryan Allen’s Ripple Effect Endowed Scholarship at Pensacola State College. This scholarship honors Bryan’s dedication to altruism and aims to encourage students while fostering a passion for kindness within them, improving the overall quality of their education, and transforming their personal lives.
The Bryan Allen’s Ripple Effect Endowed Scholarship provides financial support to students enrolled in social work and education programs. Criminal justice students and first-generation college students will also be helped through scholarships awarded from endowment earnings. Michelle hopes to inspire recipients to create their own ripples of kindness and compassion, growing their positive impact on the world.
One recipient of this endowed scholarship, Jazzmin Swager, shared how the support had profoundly impacted her life.
“As a student in my late thirties whose children are now older, I can finally embark on this educational journey and focus more on myself. Thank you so much for your help, this scholarship award will help me receive my bachelor’s degree in either accounting or business.”
Jazzmin’s heartfelt gratitude illustrates the power of a ripple effect that transformed her future, setting an example for her children who see that it is never too late to follow one’s dreams.
Jazzmin is just one example of how far a ripple can go. Every year, more and more recipients receive Bryan Allen’s Ripple Effect Endowed Scholarship, and each time, they are reinvigorated to strive to become the change they wish to see.
For more information and to support scholarships at Pensacola State College, visit http://foundation.pensacolastate.edu/opportunities-to-support-psc/scholarships/ or contact Director of Foundation Scholarships, Mikenzie Francis-Opperman, at (850) 484 – 1788 or mfrancis-opperman@pensacolastate.edu
For more information about applying for scholarships and other forms of financial support at Pensacola State College, visit https://www.pensacolastate.edu/financial-aid/ or contact the Financial Aid Department at (850) 484-1680 or fava@pensacolastate.edu