Sarah Nefflen is a senior at Lennard High School and dually enrolled at Hillsborough Community College.  Her passion is to protect the health and safety of animals in our world by providing humane, compassionate, fear free veterinary care.  Through participation in Future Farmers of America, the Vet Assistant program at Lennard High school, and volunteering with service animals as well as a local vet hospital, she has continued to grow her passion, knowledge, and skills leading her towards the next leap. Education is key to reaching her goal so that she may make a difference in the lives of animals and the people that they serve. This scholarship lights the path to success, and she is thankful for this opportunity. After graduation, she will be attending the University of Florida to study for a Bachelor of Animal Science on the pre-professional track with the intention of continuing to Veterinary school. 

Ayan Nallamshetty is a senior at Robinson High School and incoming student at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he plans to study economics and finance. Through his involvement in FBLA as the Financial Literacy Director and national success in competitive speech and debate, Ayan has found purpose in making complex ideas, like consumer economics and financial literacy, more approachable for others. He’s especially passionate about promoting educational equity and empowering students to make informed financial decisions. After graduation, he hopes to work in the finance space while continuing to support youth-focused educational initiatives. Ayan is incredibly grateful for the Dr. Kristine Bennett Scholarship, which will support his transition to college and his ongoing commitment to community impact.

Brinda Narapareddygari is currently a senior in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Strawberry Crest High School. Throughout high school, she has been actively involved in community service through organizations such as the Eco Club, Words Alive, and Luv Michael. She also serves as a tutor with Tutor Bridge, helping elementary school children strengthen their academic skills. Brinda plans to attend the University of South Florida to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. With aspirations of entering the field of dentistry, she is committed to continuing her service to the community through healthcare. One of her primary goals in college is to participate in study abroad programs to broaden her understanding of global healthcare systems and immerse herself in diverse cultures.

Taina Blaise is passionate about healthcare, public policy, and research. She plans to pursue an MD/MPH to combine her passions of medicine with public health. Her goal is to care for patients and help create policies that improve healthcare. She is especially interested in advocacy and serving underrepresented communities. In college, she plans on majoring in biomedical engineering, and hopes to gain more research experience, leadership opportunities, and give herself a strong foundation for medical school.

Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Anika Prasad has always been inspired by the strong sense of community and support that defines her hometown. A naturally creative and adventurous spirit, she has spent the past 11 years oil painting—showcasing and selling her work at events like the Florida State Fair and the Strawberry Festival. In addition to painting, she enjoys baking, dancing, and exploring anything artistic. Academically, she’s most drawn to biology and chemistry, which has fueled her passion for public health and addressing healthcare disparities. Anika attended Clark Elementary and Benito Middle School and has since been accepted to several universities, including Emory, WashU, and the University of Alabama-Birmingham’s 8-year BS/MD program. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in medicine or medical research, with a goal of making a meaningful impact in healthcare. She also hopes to travel widely and continue growing through new experiences and connections.