news release

The following individuals have been awarded scholarships/stipends through the local American Association of University Women:

Peyton Cooper, scholarship recipient of $1300, Vero Beach High School, to attend the University of South Florida to study Medical Biology. A dedicated scholar-athlete, Ms. Cooper volunteered at St. Peter’s Missionary Baptist Church, Rosewood Manor, Environmental Beach and Spoil Island; County elections and Garden Fest; and Vero Beach Care Center.

Tashiya McMillon, scholarship recipient of $1300, Vero Beach High School, to attend Florida A&M University to study Physical Therapy. Ms. McMillon was active in many clubs and organizations, including Space Coast United Soccer Club, Upward Bound, and Member, National Honor Society, African American Student Council, Treasure Coast Girls Club, Gifford Middle and Dodgertown Elementary schools, Junteenth events, and GYC Mobile Food Drive. Recipient of the Vero Beach Pride of the Tribe and Principal Props awards.

Alexandra Messam, scholarship recipient of $1300, Vero Beach High School, to attend Florida A&M University to study Biology and Pre-Med.  Ms. Messam, scholar-athlete, was co-founder of Achievers in Action Club, and member, National Honor Society, JROTC, and the TCTC Phlebotomy Program; volunteer, JROTC Honor Guards, food drives, churches.

Soreya Dramain, scholarship recipient of $1300, Indian River Charter High School, to attend Florida A&M University to study Music Production and Jazz Studies. Ms. Dramain, leader in Jazz Band and the Advanced Choir, All-State Florida Choir, Superior Solo & Ensemble, and Musical Theatre. Member, National Honor Society and winner of the Girl Scout Silver Award. Volunteered as Worship Leader at Community Baptist Church and Pathway Church, and participated in the First Presbyterian Youth Choir.

Kaylie Esposo, scholarship recipient of $1300, Sebastian River High School, to attend University of North Florida to study Aerospace Engineering. Ms. Esposo, cheerleader for varsity football and basketball, served as Big Future Ambassador and operated her own SAT Math Bootcamp through Schoolhouse Organization. Tutor, middle school students and volunteer assistant at Drone Camp.

Ola Branka, Vero Beach High School, recipient of $2000 Technical Award to attend the Cosmix School of Makeup Art. Member of the National Honor Society; president of the Art Club and BBQ Club, swim team. She volunteers with Animal Rescue.

Collaboration with the Economic Opportunity Council of Indian River County’s REACH Family Self-Sufficiency program and with Treasure Coast Technical College LPN, stipend recipients are:

Alaina Thompson $1,000

Ashley Anderson $1000 stipend (pictured above)

Audrey Turner $2000 stipend

AAUW-Vero Beach is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. As an all-volunteer organization, its fundraising goes toward providing scholarships, grants and stipends to local women and girls. To learn more about AAUW-Vero Beach, or to donate, go to AAUWverobeach.org.