Presidential Award (Full-Ride Scholarship)

Presidential Award

Overview: First-ever full-ride scholarship providing comprehensive support for displaced/furloughed hospitality workers to pursue associate's degrees.

Geographic Scope: Initiated in Orlando, Florida; potentially expandable

Focus Areas:

Higher education (associate's degree)

Displaced/furloughed worker support

Hospitality industry workforce development

Award Details:

Full-ride scholarship covering:

- Tuition
- Computer
- Transportation
- Meal benefits
- Other necessary essentials

Partnership with Valencia College

Recipients start with 18 credits already completed (through industry certifications)

Eligibility:

Displaced or furloughed hospitality workers

Individuals with industry certifications and training program completion

Example: Recipients from Second Harvest's Culinary Training Program

2020 Recipients:

Andre Trinidad

Jordan Cooper

Larissa Julien

Luzmary Gonzalez

Funding Sources: AHLA Foundation donors and Melinda Bush Mentors Scholarship Fund

Contact: foundation@ahla.com