Give to the Dorothy Nieto Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Dorothy Nieto Memorial Scholarship was established by Gabby Nieto in memory of his wife. Always wearing a smile, she brightened every room she entered and was quick to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. She saw the best in everyone and loved to guide others to their full potential. Passionate about her career in business telecommunications, she helped pave the way for future women to find success in the industry. This scholarship assists full-time Seminole State College of Florida students seeking a bachelor's degree in business and information management or nursing. Students must possess a GPA of 2.8 or higher and meet financial aid requirements.

Success Stories

Through the amazing support of our donors, we have been able to double the number of student awards every year since we began awarding this scholarship three years ago. So far, seven students have received financial scholarships to help them succeed in reaching their educational goals. 

Alicia Soltani

Entering the first semester of Seminole State's concurrent nursing program, Alicia had just returned from Greece where she worked alongside the Red Cross at a Syrian refugee camp. The life-changing experience solidified her decision to become a nurse and pursue a career in helping others.  Alicia was the first student to receive a Dorothy Nieto Memorial Endowed Scholarship and graduated in 2019 with an Associate in Science in Nursing (RN). 

"I am so thankful that my path has led me here, and I truly appreciate all the help Seminole State and this scholarship have provided me!" - Alicia

Jaden Jacobs

Our most recent recipient, Jaden, is a first-generation student seeking a Bachelor of Science in Business and Information Management. Growing up, she witnessed the countless hours her mother worked to provide living essentials for Jaden and her sister.  

During her first two years at Seminole State, Jaden developed a passion for social media and marketing. She began working with two small businesses to help build their audience base. At Seminole State, she has maintained a high GPA, learned time management and leadership skills, measuring her success not in the future money she may make, but the happiness in doing something she loves and the ability to help others succeed.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart. During these times of uncertainty, this scholarship has brought some light into my life as I continue to work hard to complete my degree." - Jaden  

Cynthia Purdy

Having recently completed her associate's degree, Cynthia Purdy is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in business and information management.  She always dreamed of earning her degree, but life and children changed her plans.   When her daughter started attending Seminole State, she encouraged Purdy to at least get her associate's degree. She regained her passion for learning and is gaining new skills that are helping her move beyond her current role as a dining hall supervisor at Rollins College. Maintaining a 3.7 GPA while working full-time, Purdy is proud to say that being on the Deans' List and President's List has boosted her morale, and has encouraged her to work harder and keep accomplishing great feats.

"I would like to thank the donors of the Dorothy Nieto Memorial Endowed Scholarship for offering this scholarship to me. I believe that anyone, no matter what age, should take advantage of the opportunity to continue their education. I put my education on hold for several years and then one day realized what I was missing. As in older adult, with daily living expenses, it is not easy to add the expense of going to college. I appreciate the opportunity that this scholarship has allowed me to help with my college finances. I hope to continue on being what I can truly be." Cynthia Purdy

Additional Information

Thank you to the following supporters of this scholarship:

• Dan Caligiuri
• Tom Fletcher
• Brad Freathy
• Sadie Molinet
• Alina San Pedro