Two local teen parents awarded Earl Holland Memorial Scholarships to attend Florida Southwestern State College
Two Lee County graduates, Daniel Rodriguez and Lesly Amesquita, have been awarded the Earl Holland Memorial Scholarship to attend Florida SouthWestern State College this fall, thanks to the generosity of the Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation.
Both Rodriguez and Amesquita overcame significant challenges on their path to graduation. As teen parents, they participated in the Young Parent Education Program through the Lee County School District, a program that supports young mothers and fathers in continuing their education while caring for their children.
Rodriguez was the first enrollee in the Level Up! Dads program at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida (CAC), an initiative designed to empower young fathers with life skills, parenting tools and personal development opportunities. Amesquita participated in CAC’s voluntary parenting classes based on the evidence-based Nurturing Parents Program, which focuses on building nurturing relationships, positive discipline strategies and healthy communication skills.
Both were recommended by CAC to apply for the Earl Holland Memorial Scholarship, which is managed by the FSW Foundation and available to beneficiaries of the Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation’s annual Nichols Cup. The scholarship provides funding for tuition and may also cover books, fees, housing and additional credits needed to complete a bachelor’s degree.
“We are proud to see Daniel and Lesly take this next step in their education,” said Bryan Simmering, president of the Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation. “Our mission is to help individuals break barriers and build a strong future, and we’re honored to be part of their journey.”
“These scholarships represent more than financial support — they’re an investment in potential,” said Dr. Jeffery Allbritten, president of Florida SouthWestern State College. “Daniel and Lesly’s perseverance is inspiring, and we are excited to welcome them to the Bucs family.”
“We couldn’t be prouder of Daniel and Lesly,” said Alicia Shannon, CEO of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida. “They have shown tremendous resilience and determination, and this opportunity is a testament to their hard work and the community partnerships that help our young parents succeed.”
Rodriguez and Amesquita will begin classes at FSW this fall, continuing their education while balancing parenthood — an accomplishment that showcases the power of community support, determination, and opportunity.
About the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida
Founded in 1981, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida provides comprehensive services to prevent, intervene, and treat child abuse. Through collaboration, education, and compassion, CAC strives to create a community where every child is safe, nurtured, and empowered to thrive. Learn more.
About the Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation
The Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation was founded in 2002 by a group of Fiddlesticks members, known as Pipers, who volunteer to organize and run the annual Nichols Cup Pro-Am Golf & Tennis Tournaments. The annual tournament recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of golfer Bobby Nichols, a longtime resident of Fiddlesticks and winner of 14 PGA Tour tournaments including the 1964 PGA Championship and 1974 Canadian Open. Since the formation of the Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation 23 years ago, more than $20 million has been donated to local children’s charities. Learn more or call 239-633-4579.
About Florida SouthWestern State College
The FSW Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Florida SouthWestern State College, dedicated to advancing student success by expanding opportunities through scholarships, programs, and strategic partnerships. Working closely with generous donors and community stakeholders, the Foundation supports access to higher education, fosters excellence in academic achievement, and promotes innovation across all FSW campuses. Learn more.