Foundation | Palm Beach County Hu

Scholarship Programs

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Social Justice Awards

The Social Justice Awards recognize local college-bound Palm Beach County high school seniors who have demonstrated an interest in advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. For further information, contact Jasmin Lewis at jasminklewis@gmail.com.

Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. on April 2, 2026.

Norman L. Stern & August R. Venezio Scholarships

Longtime Boynton Beach residents Stern and Venezio spent close to 67 years together before passing. When planning their estates, they made unrestricted bequests to PBCHRC and other LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations. In recognition of their relationship and commitment to our community, the Foundation established a scholarship in their honor.

W. Trent Steele Legal Advocacy Award

This scholarship is awarded to LGBTQ+ and allied second- or third-year law students with ties to Palm Beach County. It is in honor of Trent’s decades of pro bono service and board leadership for PBCHRC.

To apply, email your law school, current studies, and transcript to pbchrc@gmail.com

Apply Now

Charlie Frederickson STEM Scholarship

This scholarship is a $2,500 annual award funded by a bequest from the estate of Charlie Frederickson. An aerospace engineer and avid astronomer, Charlie graduated from Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn and supported LGBTQ+ groups.

To apply, email your college, STEM major, and transcript to pbchrc@gmail.com.

Apply Now

Scholarship Recipients

2026 Social Justice Award Recipients

Chloe Coffie

Throughout high school at William T. Dwyer High School, Chloe Coffie has been active in athletics and community service, developing leadership, responsibility, and a commitment to helping others. As a strong ally of the LGBTQ+ community, she values the importance of support, representation, and advocacy for underrepresented voices.

Chloe plans to attend Indian River State College, and following graduation, she intends to attend law school so she can advocate for diverse communities and help ensure everyone is heard and respected.

McKinley Cupit

A senior at Jupiter High School, McKinley Cupit is passionate about creativity, community service, and advocacy. Raised by two mothers, she has developed a deep appreciation for authenticity and self-expression, which she channels through digital art and color guard, where she proudly serves as captain.

Growing up in the LGBTQ+ community inspired her commitment to advocacy and strengthened her desire to help others through science and healthcare. McKinley plans to attend University of Central Florida to study Biomedical Sciences and pursue a career in genetic counseling, where she hopes to support individuals and families through compassionate guidance and care.

Emily Daniel

Emily Daniel, a senior at Santaluces Community High School, plans to attend Lynn University to study forensic investigations, combining her passions for science, creativity, and problem-solving. Through this career path, she hopes to help combat crimes against the LGBTQ+ community through investigative and behind-the-scenes work that supports justice and accountability.

A talented musician and photographer, Emily has performed with a local band in downtown Lake Worth Beach. She also serves as an officer in the National Honor Society and actively volunteers in her community. Balancing academics, service, extracurricular activities, and two jobs has strengthened her kindness, perseverance, and dedication to protecting and supporting others.

Presley Greenstein

Presley Greenstein, a senior at Jupiter Community High School, is a dedicated student committed to academic excellence, personal growth, and supporting others. After her father came out when she was young and her parents divorced, Presley faced years of insensitive questions and judgment from peers. Over time, she learned to respond with the same grace and resilience her father modeled, becoming a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.

While completing nine AP courses and earning an AICE Diploma, Presley found her greatest growth in developing confidence, strengthening her voice, and becoming the best version of herself. This fall, she will attend Florida State University to study psychology, with the goal of helping others improve their mental health and well-being.

Alysha Kennedy

Alysha Kennedy was raised by two U.S. Marines who instilled in her the values of strength, conviction, and purpose. As a 6’1”, queer, Trini-Rican woman pursuing STEM, Alysha is determined to challenge stereotypes and create greater representation in cybersecurity. Through computer science competitions and honor societies, she has built a strong foundation in the field and hopes to work in the government sector protecting and supporting others.

Beyond academics, Alysha is deeply committed to her community. She helps maintain LGBTQ+ safe spaces at Jupiter Community High School and, through her volunteer work at the public library, connects peers with LGBTQ+ youth resources and support groups. Her leadership reflects both her ambition and her dedication to uplifting others while living authentically.

Zachary Koenig

Zachary Koenig, a 2025 graduate of Donna Klein Jewish Academy, has been a strong ally and advocate for LGBTQ+ students throughout his high school years. During his gap year in Israel, he challenged himself through service and leadership, completing a six-week army basic training program, participating in excavations near the Western Wall, and volunteering with Magen David Adom after earning his certification.

Through ambulance rides and blood donation drives during the war, Zachary developed resilience, teamwork, and leadership under pressure. This fall, he will attend Clark University, where he plans to continue advocating for causes he cares about while growing personally and professionally.

Chloe Medlock

Chloe Medlock, a senior at William T. Dwyer High School, turned years of bullying after coming out as bisexual into a journey of self-acceptance and resilience. After spending years trying to conform to others’ expectations, she learned that embracing her authentic self was the key to confidence and belonging.

Chloe plans to attend University of Central Florida to earn a degree in Biology before continuing into graduate studies and a career in the medical field. She hopes to specialize in dermatology, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all patients, including those seeking gender-affirming care and hormone management. Through compassionate, open-minded care, Chloe aims to help others feel confident, comfortable, and respected in their own skin.

Damarrion Wilder

Damarrion Wilder, a trans student at Palm Beach Gardens High School, played lacrosse throughout high school while balancing academics and personal growth. During junior year, Damarrion began taking college courses at Palm Beach State College through the school’s dual enrollment program, demonstrating both determination and ambition.

Damarrion plans to continue their education at Palm Beach State College and pursue a career as a diesel mechanic. Through their journey, they hope to inspire others in the LGBTQ+ community to pursue their goals with confidence, regardless of any doubts or obstacles they may face.