Eckenrode named to Union University Dean’s List

JACKSON, Tenn. — Three hundred eighty-three students have been named to the Union University Dean’s List for the fall 2024 semester.

The Dean’s List includes full-time students who achieve a 3.5 grade point average on a four-point scale.

Among those recognized was Austria Eckenrode of North Fort Myers.

Founded in 1823 and affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention, Union University offers liberal arts training in more than 100 majors and programs of study along with professional programs in business, education and nursing.

FGCU FPRA members Huggins and Arello Resin earn Certificate in Principles of Public Relations

La’Kennya Huggins and Bianca Arello Resin, recent Florida Gulf Coast University graduates and student members of the Florida Public Relations Association recently earned the prestigious Certificate in Principles of Public Relations.

The certificate, which is earned through passing an examination designed to test the foundational knowledge of those entering the public relations profession, is administrated by the Universal Accreditation Board and gives students a leg up in securing sought-after positions in the profession. Huggins and Arello Resin are the 12th and 13th Eagles to earn the certificate.

Huggins graduated from FGCU in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in communication, concentrating in public relations, and a minor in marketing. She is now pursuing a second bachelor’s degree in event management at the University of Central Florida. Meanwhile, Arello Resin recently graduated, earning a double major in communication with a concentration in public relations and theatre, and is ready to start her career in PR.

To qualify for the Certificate in Principles of Public Relations examination, students must be within six months of graduation (either before or after) from an accredited college or university, whose degree is in public relations or a related area of study. They also must be members of the Public Relations Student Society of America or student member of another UAB participating organization, and take a course specifically designated for Certificate preparation either online or on campus.

Farah & Farah launches fifth Empowering Greatness Scholarship program

Fort Myers personal injury law firm Farah & Farah has announced the relaunch of its fifth annual Empowering Greatness Scholarship. In partnership with the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida, the scholarship recognizes five outstanding high school students with a two-year college scholarship.

The partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters underscores the importance of mentorship in a young person’s life. By providing financial support for higher education, Farah & Farah hopes to further empower these young people to achieve their dreams.

Scholarship winners receive a Florida Prepaid College Foundation 2-Year College Plan that covers tuition and most fees for 60 credit hours at any Florida public college. The plan value can also be applied to universities or trade schools in Florida.

In order to qualify, students need to be currently enrolled in a public or charter high school in Florida, demonstrate a stellar commitment to their communities and the classroom, and meet additional eligibility criteria. Scholarship recipients will be announced in May.

Students can submit their applications through the Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida online application portal at bbbsflorida.org, which officially opened on Dec. 16. The deadline to apply is Friday, Feb. 18. For more, visit farahandfarah.com or email scholarships@farahandfarah.com.