First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale Awards $118,000 in Scholarships to Help 68 Students Attend College

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., June 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing a tradition that began in the 1930s, First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale has awarded $118,000 in college scholarships to 68 students for the 2014-2015 school year.

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"First Pres of Fort Lauderdale is committed to nurturing and empowering tomorrow's leaders," said Nic Merchant, Director of Youth and College Ministries at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale.

The scholarship program is designed to honor students for their commitment and involvement in church as well as Christian character and passion for their faith. The program seeks to provide financial assistance to full-time undergraduate students, seminary students, and graduate students who are seeking a degree in a professional field of Christian service.

Each year, students are invited to fill out an application and submit it to the church's scholarship committee, which is comprised of church members.  

"The scholarship committee looks for students who possess a clear desire to further their education, demonstrate a commitment to their faith, and pursue a Christian lifestyle," Merchant said. "Special thanks to the following church members who served on this year's scholarship committee: Chris Jahr (Chair), Barbara Hollowell (Vice Chair), Connie Betz, Paul Dooley, Sharon Dooley, Nancy Green, Wanda Irwin, Carole Kashner, Tom Keith, Suzanne McCawley, Sherry Markham, Dianne Osborne and John Osborne."

Scholarship donors and recipients were recognized at a special celebratory brunch held on Sunday, June 1, 2014 at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale. "The brunch is a time to celebrate the commitment the students have shown and the generosity and vision of church members who have dedicated their time and/or resources to help the recipients pursue their goals," Merchant said.

Not only is Merchant excited about the opportunities that the scholarship program is providing the youth in his ministry, but also he is thankful for how the program has helped him to continue his education.

"The scholarship program has had an enormous impact on my life," Merchant shares. "It is because of this scholarship program that I am currently enrolled in the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary's Masters of Divinity program."

The church has given scholarships to students from a number of Christian churches across South Florida. To be added to an email list for updates and information about the youth program at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, please contact Nic Merchant at [email protected] or call 954-598-9361.

For additional information about First Presbyterian Church, 401 SE 15th Ave. in Fort Lauderdale, its worship schedule or its diverse array of faith-based and social programming please visit www.firstpres.cc or call (954) 462-6200. Like what First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale is doing? Show it by clicking here.

About First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale
Founded in 1912, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale is located on the banks of the New River in the historic Colee Hammock neighborhood in downtown Ft. Lauderdale. With more than 1,800 members, and a strong core of volunteers, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale prides itself on offering something for everyone, regardless of age. Since 1947, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale has operated Happyland Day School, a pre-school for ages two to Kindergarten that provides a quality Christian environment for children. Adult, youth and children choirs as well as youth and adult groups offer ample opportunity for fellowship at any age. An Adult Activity Center is open to senior adults ages 55 and up and features weekly lunches, entertainment and monthly bus trips. First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale offers two regular Sunday worship services as well as special worship services held throughout the year to commemorate significant days. For more information, please visit www.firstpres.cc or call (954)462-6200.

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SOURCE First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale