FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 27, 2026
Yamelie Gonzalez, Communications Manager
352.671.7555 ◊ CELL: 352.671.7542
FOREVER SCHOLARSHIP ANNOUNCED FOR FESSENDEN STUDENTS
MARION COUNTY – The Public Education Foundation of Marion County (PEFMC) announced the creation of the Fessenden Forever Scholarship, a groundbreaking, permanent initiative made possible through an endowed gift from the Saint Bernard Foundation.
The endowment establishes a lasting scholarship program for Fessenden Elementary School students to support their postsecondary education. Designed to open doors for generations of learners, the fund ensures opportunity begins early and extends well beyond the classroom. The investment marks a significant milestone for both PEFMC and Marion County Public Schools (MCPS).
“This is a transformational moment for Fessenden Elementary,” said Superintendent Dr. Danielle Brewer. “The Fessenden Forever Scholarship, thanks to the Saint Bernard Foundation, will turn possibility into reality for our students.”
The announcement was made during the school’s fifth-grade graduation ceremony, where students and families learned of the opportunity created in their honor.
“This scholarship changes the trajectory of our students’ lives,” said Stacie Newmones, principal of Fessenden Elementary. “It gives them confidence, hope and the assurance that their community believes in them every step of the way.”
In a surprise moment, seniors who previously attended Fessenden Elementary also learned they are eligible for support as they pursue education after high school.
“We want this scholarship to create opportunity not just for today’s students, but for every Fessenden graduate who follows,” said Mary Jane Hunt of the Saint Bernard Foundation. “This is about investing in futures, opening doors and making sure every child at Fessenden Elementary knows they have a bright future ahead.”
The scholarship reflects the shared commitment of the Saint Bernard Foundation and PEFMC to invest in students and strengthen the local community through education.
“This moment represents life-changing opportunities for the Fessenden community — forever,” said Meghan Magamoll, executive director of the Public Education Foundation of Marion County. “Our goal is to honor the vision behind this gift while ensuring it supports as many students as possible and endures far beyond today.”
For more information, contact Executive Director Meghan Magamoll with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County at 352.671.4167 or [email protected].