We Help Students Achieve Their Goals

Working together with individuals, organizations, and businesses in our community, we are able to help many students achieve their academic goals. Read More

Faces of Change: Meet people who make a significant difference at Polk State, and those whose lives were positively impacted by the power of philanthropy.

An Unexpected Blessing Just a few short years ago, sixteen-year-old Juan Collazo’s life was adrift. He had himself swathed in a cocoon of indifference, with no sign of any bright future ahead of him. But young Juan felt invincible – until the day that would change his life forever. In the face of circumstances that could have been daunting, Juan instead found a compassion, determination and purpose within himself that he could not have imagined he possessed. Learn how this inspirational Polk State College student’s dreams of helping others are taking flight! With Passion and Purpose, She’s Changing the World Experienced in working with emotionally disturbed children, Rita S. Smith knew well of the hurdles that arise when the warm safety of home dissolves. Little did she know her next job would make her realize this was only the tip of the iceberg. Her epiphany about an often-overlooked epidemic of silent desperation and terror fueled an unstoppable passion that has driven her to impact countless lives in profound ways. Learn about how this intrepid recipient of the Polk State College Distinguished Alumnus Award was a pioneer in the work of healing and preventing the outer wounds that engender inner agony, transforming pain into hope one family at a time. Intertwining Lives With her passion for service, Cindy Hartley Ross creates a beautiful and meaningful tapestry by weaving together the lives of generous givers with those in need. Learn about her unparalleled leadership and devotion to uplifting Polk State College and the community.