LOCAL REPUBLICAN PARTY AWARDS FREEDOM SCHOLARSHIPS

Local GOP Chair Mike Watkins with school board member Josh Brown and the five scholarship recipients – Sydney Andres (Wakulla Christian School), Cole Hening (Wakulla High School) , Britton Nichols (Wakulla High School), Braeden Paul (Wakulla High School), and Taylor Pierini (Wakulla Christian School) – with state Rep. Jason Shoaf and school board chair Melisa Taylor.

By LINDA ANN McDONALD

The Wakulla Republican Executive Committee announced the five recipients of the first ever Wakulla Freedom Scholarships on Monday, June 12.
The $1,000 scholarships were competitive, and recipients were selected based on their 2023 graduation from Wakulla public, private or home schools. Each recipient authored an essay on the importance of Freedom and how it affects the citizens of Wakulla County.
More than 2,000 Wakulla County students attend grades 7-12. The Wakulla Republican Executive Committee recognizes the value of the youth in our community, and we are committed to fostering education on civics that is pro-America, pro-Liberty, and pro-Freedom. Our goal is to provide the tools and experiences our youth need to gain perspective, resilience and a commitment to this nation we all love so much.
Recipients include Sydney Andres (Wakulla Christian School), Cole Hening (Wakulla High School) , Britton Nichols (Wakulla High School), Braeden Paul (Wakulla High School), and Taylor Pierini (Wakulla Christian School).
The scholarships has no limits; it can be applied to traditional post-secondary schools or to students pursuing a trade.
Cole Hening, scholarship recipient said, “I am happy to be here; I have my eyes on being a Lineman and moving forward with my dreams.”
Britton Nichols said, “I am honored, and I look forward to using my scholarship for my tuition for the 2-year plan to TCC and the transition 2 year plan to FSU, I am deciding on majoring in Business.”  When asked what she will bring with her from Wakulla to her new school, Britton said, “I will treat my peers like I was treated in Wakulla County, which is with respect and kindness.”
Braeden Paul will be attending Enterprise State College playing soccer, Sydney Andres plans on going to Gulf State for Business and have her Realtor’s license by October while Taylor Pierini will be going to TCC and FSU with an interest in Psychology.
Wakulla County Commissioner Mike Kemp, who attended the awards ceremony, said, “This is one of the best things we have done to give our youth a better understanding of what Republicans stand for and what we stand for.
Commissioner Ralph Thomas said, “I think it’s good the GOP can recognize the achievements of these young patriots. I hope where they decide to go, they continue to remember America, our Constitution, our Freedom and the importance of protecting this everyday.”
Sherry Parks said, “We hope the students stay true to the core concepts our nation was built on and to not waive to popular misconceptions that are prevalent to our culture today.”
Mike Watkins, local GOP chair said, “These young men and women are shining examples in our community and they are committed to protecting our freedom. They have put in the hard work to build their character, and their opportunity to further their education.
“Today we celebrate their success and we want to promote their pursuit of the American Dream,” Watkins said.