Melissa grew up in a single-parent home with six brothers and sisters. Her father worked three jobs to provide for them as the sole caretaker of the children. He was recently diagnosed with cancer, but after extensive treatments, he is now cancer-free. She has had to overcome these adversities throughout high school. Melissa has maintained a 3.6 GPA in high school, while also gaining 15 hours of college credits. She played varsity tennis for four years and Captained the school cheer squad. She will continue her college classes at Polk State College and hopes to soon transfer to Florida Gulf Coast University.

2014 Scholarship Winner

Kathleen Senior High School

Tennis & Cheer Squad

Polk State College