Faith Alvarez
Faith Alvarez
Faith Alvarez
Faith Alvarez is currently a student at Florida Gulf Coast University, where she is majoring in Hospitality Management. She is drawn to the field for its wide range of career opportunities and global potential. Faith’s long-term goal is to expand her interpersonal skills and deepen her understanding of different cultures through immersive travel experiences.
While attending Gateway Charter High School, Faith was a member of the tennis team. Her coach reflects, “I had the privilege of coaching Faith and witnessed her growth both as an athlete and as a dedicated individual. She is one of the most positive and motivating students I have worked with.” He adds, “Faith has a natural ability to connect with others, and I see strong leadership potential in her academic future.”
Faith is also a member of the Food and Beverage team. If you see her at the clubhouse, be sure to congratulate her.
Kellyn Rivas
Faith Alvarez
Faith Alvarez
Kellyn Rivas is graduating from Estero High School and will begin her freshman year at Florida Gulf Coast University. She plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, with the goal of continuing on to earn a Master of Physician Assistant Studies. Kellyn is excited to build a future career in sports medicine.
The CTE Coordinator at Estero High School shares, “I have watched Kellyn grow into an exceptional student whose academic dedication, leadership, and character consistently set her apart.” Her social studies teacher adds, “Kellyn exemplifies the qualities this scholarship aims to recognize: consistency, hard work, leadership, and a strong sense of purpose. I am confident she will continue to excel academically and professionally while making a positive impact on those around her.”
Kellyn is also a valued member of the Food and Beverage team. If you see her at the Clubhouse, be sure to offer your congratulations.
Gabriella Valencia
Gabriella Valencia
Gabriella Valencia
Gabriella Valencia will begin her freshman year at Western Carolina University this fall, where she plans to major in Communication Sciences and Disorders while minoring in Special Education. She is passionate about helping individuals communicate and express themselves effectively.
Her interest in this field began in eighth grade while serving as a student aide in an Intensive Intervention classroom. During that time, she developed a particular passion for supporting non-verbal students, especially through the use of assistive and communication technologies.
Her Intensive Intervention teacher shares, “Gabby has a remarkable ability to connect with students, offering a level of patience and kindness that is truly exceptional. I have no doubt she will continue to make an incredible impact. Her dedication to students’ education and growth will make her an outstanding future educator.”
The school’s speech-language pathologist adds, “I recognized early on that Gabby has a natural intuition for communication. In the rapidly growing field of augmentative communication, she shows a willingness to take on complex challenges. Gabby is compassionate, patient, and determined to help students find their voice. We need individuals like her—driven by care and committed to ensuring every person can communicate, no matter the method.”
Gabriella is the daughter of Assistant Food and Beverage Director, Kat Navarro.
Michael Dean Wenk
Gabriella Valencia
Gabriella Valencia
Michael Dean Wenk has spent the past two years working at Spring Run Golf Club while continuing his studies at Florida Gulf Coast University. He is currently pursuing a double major in Business Administration and PGA Golf Management, with two years remaining until graduation. Aspiring to become a golf professional, Michael ultimately hopes to one day own or operate his own golf course.
A mathematics professor at FGCU notes, “Given Michael’s intelligence, maturity, and strong drive to succeed, he is well-positioned to accomplish great things in whichever area of the golf industry he pursues.”
Originally from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Michael grew up surrounded by the game and remains dedicated to expanding both his experience and professional network within the golf world. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with friends and relaxing at the beach.