Local businesswoman and Polk State alum leaves a legacy that will ensure student success for years to come
The Polk State College Foundation has received a $115,000 legacy gift from the Cynthia A. Price Revocable Trust to support students pursuing an associate degree at Polk State College.
Steve Warner, Vice President of Resource Development and Executive Director of the Polk State College Foundation, presented the check during the Polk State College District Board of Trustees meeting.
“Cindy was a remarkable friend, advocate, and unwavering champion for Polk State College,” Warner told trustees. “Through her trust, the Polk State College Foundation will now receive a transformative gift, an extraordinary expression of her deep love and passion for this institution and our students.
The Foundation has established the Cynthia A. Price Endowed Fund to support students pursuing their associate degree with a scholarship covering tuition, books, and fees.
“Cindy believed deeply, with her whole heart, in the power of education and that education can change lives,” Warner said. “She gave with purpose, and she inspired others to be part of something greater than themselves. Cindy didn't just support Polk State College, she strengthened it, invested in its future, and encouraged others to do the same.”
The gift is held at Citizens Bank & Trust, where Price worked closely with trust officers to establish her estate plan. Representatives Tammy Ferrell and Bonnie Parker of Citizens Bank & Trust joined Warner for the presentation, along with Foundation Board Chair Bo Boyte, Price's husband Perry Price and daughter-in-law Bri Price
“Most people know about Cindy’s success as a businesswoman, but what you may not know is that more than 50 years ago, she was a Polk Junior College student working full time and trying to build a future,” said Bonnie Parker, who helped administer the trust. “She wanted to make sure that others had the opportunity to do what she was able to do.”
After earning her associate degree at Polk, she continued her education at Florida Southern College, where she completed her bachelor’s degree.
Parker said Price was intentional about ensuring her legacy would focus on education and access for students following similar paths.
Professionally, Price served as a regional manager for Tampa Electric Company, where she brought the same care and commitment to her work that she did in her civic life. She was known for building bridges between businesses and the community, always seeking ways to help others thrive.
“Cindy had such a love for Polk County,” Price’s husband, Perry Price, said. “She lived the mission of Polk State College, doing her best to help equip future leaders to make a difference locally and beyond. Even though she is no longer with us, it’s moments like these that remind us that her legacy lives on in every student who is blessed by her generosity.”
District Board of Trustees Chair Ann Barnhart praised the gift and Price’s legacy, noting its lasting impact on students and the community.
“This extraordinary gift reflects Cindy Price’s belief in Polk State College and in the promise of education,” Barnhart said. “Her generosity will continue to change lives and strengthen our community for generations to come.”
Donors partner with the Foundation to align their philanthropic goals with lasting student impact. Gifts like Price’s not only honor her values but also ensure her generosity continues to make a difference for years to come.
Anyone interested in learning more about establishing scholarships, endowments or legacy gifts through the Polk State College Foundation are encouraged to explore how their support can help students achieve their educational goals by emailing foundation@polk.edu.
Warner said the Foundation hopes Price’s example will encourage others to consider how they can create an enduring impact through legacy giving.
“Because of Cindy, doors will open for students, dreams will take shape, and lives will change,” Warner said. “That is a legacy worth celebrating.”
