TREYSEAN HENRY: The recent graduate of Palm Beach Lakes High School in West Palm Beach, second from left, was among 27 college scholarship recipients Saturday at the Manatee Lagoon, courtesy of the Palm Beach County Caucus of Black Elected Officials (BEO) and FPL. With him are BEO members, state Sen. Bobby Powell, state Rep. Jervonte Edmonds and Port of Palm Beach Commissioner Dr. Jean Enright. Henry, who is attending Palm Beach State University to major in health science, said his passion for health and wellness inspired him to pursue a career in the healthcare field. ERNA DELICE PHOTOS FOR SOUTH FLORIDA TIMES

Riviera Beach – The Palm Beach County Caucus of Black Elected Officials (BEO) awarded 27 college scholarships to Palm Beach County high school and college students Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Manatee Lagoon in Riviera Beach, sponsored by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL).

The $1,000-per-student awards acknowledged those with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0, "demonstrated leadership, outstanding character, and dedication to community service," the organizers said. Initially intended for 25 recipients, the number was increased due to the large number of entries.

“These awards underscore our pride in the achievements of these students and honor their hard work and dedication,” said state Sen. Bobby Powell, the caucus president. “It’s a way to help them move closer to their future goals.”

The scholarship recipients plan to attend colleges such as Florida Agriculture & Mechanical University, Howard University, University of Michigan, Palm Beach State College, Louisiana State University, University of Miami, Florida Atlantic University, Wilkins Honors College, and more.

Palm Beach County Commissioners Michael A. Barnett and Mack Bernard, BEO members and other elected officials were in attendance to recognize and interact with the students, encouraging the young adults to pursue their education passionately.

“The cost of higher education is often the greatest obstacle to earning a degree,” said state Rep. Jervonte Edmonds, the caucus’ 1st vice president. “Our goal is to help tear down that wall to opportunity.”

The scholarships were the first to be awarded since the 2023 relaunch of the caucus.

Saturday’s event followed the BEO’s annual scholarship fundraising luncheon in March, during which the organization hosted noted automobile sales entrepreneur Sanford “Sandy” Woods as keynote speaker.