Four Highlands County Students Receive Robert C. Saffold, Sr. Scholarships

SEBRING — Florida Non-Profit Housing, Inc. recognized four Highlands County graduating seniors during the 5th Annual Robert C. Saffold, Sr. Scholarship Ceremony held June 12 at the Pavilion at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Sebring.

The scholarship program, established in memory of Robert C. Saffold, Sr., recognizes graduating seniors who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to continuing their education.

The 2026 scholarship recipients are Jonathan Nava of Avon Park High School; Dulce Reynoso of Lake Placid High School; Chellymar Pardo-Rivera of Lake Placid High School; and Kh'Naya Madison of Sebring High School.

Highlands County Commissioner Scott Kirouac attended the ceremony to help recognize the scholarship recipients, joining family members, educators, scholarship committee members and community supporters in celebrating the students' accomplishments.

The Robert C. Saffold, Sr. Scholarship is open annually to graduating seniors attending public, private and charter high schools throughout Highlands County. Applications are reviewed by an independent scholarship selection committee based on academic performance, leadership, community service, personal achievements, and future educational goals.

"Education has the power to change lives, strengthen families and build stronger communities," said Steven Brown, Executive Director of Florida Non-Profit Housing, Inc. "We are proud to recognize these outstanding students and invest in their futures. Their dedication and perseverance are an inspiration, and we look forward to seeing all they accomplish."

Florida Non-Profit Housing, Inc. has served Highlands County and surrounding communities for more than four decades. The organization develops and preserves affordable rental housing, administers local, state and federal housing assistance programs, provides HUD-approved housing counseling, USDA homeownership loan packaging, financial capability coaching and homebuyer education, and supports housing initiatives that serve farmworkers, low- to moderate-income families, seniors and other underserved populations.

The annual scholarship program reflects the organization's commitment to expanding educational opportunities while strengthening the communities it serves. By investing in local students, Florida Non-Profit Housing, Inc. continues its mission of helping individuals and families build stable futures through education, housing and community development.

Florida Non-Profit Housing, Inc. congratulates Jonathan Nava, Dulce Reynoso, Chellymar Pardo-Rivera and Kh'Naya Madison and wish each of them continued success as they begin the next chapter of their educational journeys.

Photo Caption:
Recipients of the 2026 Robert C. Saffold, Sr. Scholarship is recognized during the scholarship ceremony held June 12 at the Pavilion at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Sebring. Pictured, from left, are Jonathan Nava, Chellymar Pardo-Rivera, Dulce Reynoso and Kh'Naya Madison.