A recent Southeast High School graduate, Jamarr Williams, experienced an unforgettable moment when he was awarded The Coke Florida Refreshing Minds Scholarship from Coca-Cola Beverages Florida. This surprise event took place in a room filled supportive educators, family and mentors, all of whom were eager to celebrate Jamarr's achievements.

A teacher smiling with excitement and looking directly at his teacher.

This scholarship is part of a broader initiative by Coke Florida in collaboration with Florida PrePaid, aimed at supporting the educational aspirations of deserving students. Together, they have awarded 25 scholarships to scholars actively involved in their local Big Brothers Big Sisters Association or Boys & Girls Clubs. These scholarships are designed to cover full tuition and most fees for two years, allowing students to attend the public Florida university, college, or technical school of their choice.

A representative from Coke Florida presents a student with balloons and a certificate for a two year scholarship.

Jamarr has ambitious plans for his future. He intends to start his post-secondary education at Tallahassee Community College before transferring to Florida State University, where he will pursue a degree in engineering. His goal is to become a chemical engineer, a passion that was ignited by a recent conversation with Representative William "Bill" Connerly in Tallahassee.

During a trip with the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County, Jamarr engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with the local legislator about Teflon, scientifically known as polytetrafluoroethylene, and its environmental impacts. Jamarr aspires to create solutions that will prevent these materials from causing further harm to our environment.

A high school senior stands next to his mother at a surprise scholarship announcement.

We had the opportunity to speak with Jamarr about his feelings regarding the scholarship and the relief it brings. "It feels really good," he shared, "because the entire time I was trying to figure out how I could pay for both school and housing."

A representative from Coke Florida standing next to a young man holding balloons.

The scholarship ceremony was a moment of joy and validation for Jamarr, who has demonstrated resilience and dedication throughout his academic career. His story is a testament to the power of community support and the opportunities that can arise from partnerships between corporations and educational organizations.

A student smiles while standing next to his teacher.

As Jamarr embarks on this new chapter, he carries with him the encouragement and belief of those who have supported him along the way, including technology teacher Nicholas Smith.

Jamarr’s journey is just beginning, and with the foundation provided by this scholarship, he is poised to achieve great things.

Southeast High

Southeast High School Graduate Celebrates Refreshing Future with Support from Coke Florida