For PSC dental hygiene instructor Donna Del Rosario, her lifelong, personal connection to the College inspired her to give back and help support students.
“Pensacola State College holds a special place in my heart,” Donna expressed. “As a Pensacola native, some of my earliest memories are tied to what was then Pensacola Junior College. A childhood friend’s mom, an English professor at the college, would take us to the cosmetology department for fun updos—just because we were girly and it brought us joy. My aunt, also an educator in Escambia County, would often bring me along to the track and racquetball courts on campus. Pensacola Junior College wasn’t just a school; it was part of the fabric of my community growing up.”
“Years later,” Donna said, “I was honored to receive an academic scholarship from PJC, where I studied from 2003 to 2006 and graduated from the Dental Hygiene program. That education launched my career and laid the foundation for my professional success.”
Despite her love for the dental hygiene field, Donna felt a growing passion for teaching rising within her. “After earning a higher degree, I was thrilled to return to my alma mater—now Pensacola State College—as an adjunct faculty member in 2021. As of January 2025, I have the privilege of serving as a full-time faculty member, fulfilling a dream I’ve held for many years.”
Donna chooses to donate to the PSC Foundation because she deeply believes in our students. “I see them. I understand them,” she shared. “I know what it’s like to have big dreams and wonder how you’ll make them a reality. My monthly contribution is a small way to support those dreams—whether it helps relieve a financial burden for a student, funds new equipment, or enhances learning experiences in the classroom.”
“I’m proud to invest in the future of a community that once invested in me.”
Invest in Pensacola State College students today by visiting: https://foundation.pensacolastate.edu/online-giving/.
Pictures:
Top: PSC Dental Hygiene Instructor, Donna Del Rosario
Middle: Donna Del Rosario celebrates her students at the Spring 2026 Student Excellence Awards.
Bottom: Donna Del Rosario at USTI Dental Hygiene Symposium