First Horizon Foundation has committed $35,000 to FIU Business to establish a scholarship for students who are the first generation in their family to pursue a college degree.
The First Horizon Foundation First Generation Business Scholarship Endowment will provide aid for students enrolled in FIU Business who demonstrate financial need. Additionally, each recipient will have access to mentoring support and the opportunity to participate in a mentorship or internship program.
"Education is the solution to many of the problems that we face and supporting first-generation students to achieve their dreams is very important for the future of our community," said Orlando Roche (BBA '88), Miami market president of First Horizon Bank.
Education is the solution to many of the problems that we face and supporting first-generation students to achieve their dreams is very important for the future of our community.
Orlando Roche
First Horizon Foundation First Generation Business Scholars must be enrolled for a minimum of six credit hours per semester, must demonstrate financial need by completing the national Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be eligible for a Pell Grant. Preference will be given to students in their freshman year at FIU Business.
Funds for the First Horizon Foundation scholarships, matched by the state of Florida's First Generation Matching Grant Program, will support students for the fall and spring semesters.
"I am happy to continue to assist FIU in making a positive impact in our community and encourage others to support this very special university that touches so many of our residents," said Roche, former member of the FIU Foundation Board of Directors.