The Hemingway Look-Alike Society recently presented a $53,000 check to the College of the Florida Keys Foundation, completing a three-year, $174,000 pledge that expanded its scholarship endowment to $750,000. The society has built the largest endowment with the foundation, solidifying a legacy at the college and the ability to fund future scholarships for years to come.
For 26 years, the “Papas” of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society have supported the educational dreams of over 300 CFK students with over $250,000 in scholarships while celebrating the literary legacy of Ernest Hemingway. Their 2023 pledge allowed the organization to increase individual scholarship awards from $1,500 to $2,500.
“Philanthropy’s importance cannot be overstated as state and federal resources shrink while the need for the most technologically advanced workforce increases,” said CFK president Jonathan Gueverra. “The Hemingway Look-Alike Society and its membership have recognized the importance of both trends and continue to financially support and strengthen the development of a workforce that serves our local and regional economies.”
In July, the society awarded $35,000 in scholarships to 14 students attending CFK, each receiving $2,500 to apply toward tuition and fees.
The scholarship is open to degree-seeking students who demonstrate literary talent, are veterans and/or are pursuing credentials in the fields of nursing, marine science, paramedic services, emergency medicine, law enforcement or corrections. One scholarship bears the name of Kermit “Shine” Forbes, Hemingway’s sparring partner, and is presented to a CFK-bound graduate of Key West High School.
More information about CFK and scholarship opportunities is at cfk.edu/paying-for-college.
More information about the foundation is available from Lana Gaspari at foundation@cfk.edu or 305-809-3214.
