Local Foundation Helps Students Gain Fresh Start

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The Patrick Brett Foundation is generously donating $100,000 to St. Petersburg College (SPC) to provide students the opportunity for a second chance through the Fresh Start Scholarship. This donation matches a similar $100,000 donation given to SPC in 2020. Terry and Kim Brett created the foundation in 2016 in memory of their son Patrick, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2005.

The donation announcement will be held at noon on Thursday, May 20, at the SPC Midtown Center Community Room, 1300 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg.

“We are so grateful for the continued support of the Patrick Brett Foundation, which honors the legacy of a dynamic and compassionate young man who sought to make a difference in the lives of others,” said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams. “The Fresh Start scholarships are transforming the lives of students who just need a little extra support to make it to the finish line.”

Patrick Brett valued education and celebrated positive change in people, so as a way to celebrate his life, the Patrick Brett Foundation has championed the success of individuals seeking to improve their lives. The foundation’s mission is to offer guidance, nurture ambition, promote leadership and encourage positive change in the community.

Over the years, the Patrick Brett Foundation has donated more than $375,000 to SPC in support of scholarships for individuals like Linda Johnson. The first scholarship recipient, Johnson graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Management and Organizational Leadership from SPC in 2018. Johnson decided to go back to school to gain a competitive edge in the workforce and be a role model for her daughter.

“I wanted a degree to ensure my future was stable,” Johnson said. “I’m very thankful to the Patrick Brett Foundation for giving me the opportunity for a fresh start.”

Johnson, who is currently employed at Raymond James Financial in the Information Technology Department, feels her employer has already seen a change in her.

“This (opportunity) will help me advance in my career. I’m a lot stronger and confident, and people see that,” she said.

The foundation has also made a difference in the lives of families like Fresh Start Scholarship recipient Danielle Stewart, who has overcome adversity while pursuing her education.

“The Patrick Brett Foundation has supported my family and me through some of the hardest times, and I was able to push forward because of it,” Stewart said. “Being chosen for the scholarship allowed me to show my children what is possible to obtain and that there are people in this world who have hearts of gold who care wholeheartedly.”

Those interested in applying for the scholarship can contact Caity Carter, SPC Scholarship Manager, at Carter.Caity@spcollege.edu or (727) 614-7220.

This press release was produced by the St Petersburg College News. The views expressed are the author's own.