Project Scholars, the parent organization and host of Pig on the Pond Community Festival, announced the four south Lake County students who will each receive up to $10,000 in scholarships — $2,500 for each year they attend college.
The students graduating from high school who are receiving the scholarships are:
• Isabel Acensio is graduating from South Lake High School. The Groveland senior will be attending the University of Central Florida where she plans to major in psychology with a goal of becoming a therapist for Veterans.
• Aniah Pierce is graduating from East Ridge High School. The Clermont senior will be attending the University of Central Florida where she plans to major in media production and management.
• Savannah Splitt is graduating from Real Life Christian Academy. The Howey-in-the-Hills senior is the recipient of the Orlando Health South Lake Hospital scholarship that focuses on students pursuing a career in STEM. Savannah will be attending Lake-Sumter State College and plans to major in nursing.
• Manuel Almonte is graduating from Real Life Christian Academy and was the recipient of our Cheryl Fishel Memorial Scholarship. Manny lives in Clermont and plans to attend Lake-Sumter State College before continuing on to the University of Central Florida with a goal of becoming a physical therapist.
“We take immense pride in our exceptional students who have dedicated themselves to earning these scholarships,’ remarked Paul Rountree, President of Project Scholars. “Not only are they exemplary scholars, but they also demonstrate remarkable leadership qualities and a commitment to community service. It’s a privilege for us to contribute to their college education and support them in pursuing their dreams.”
The four students were recently honored at their Senior Awards Nights and are among nearly 100 students that applied for scholarships, which are funded by the Pig on the Pond Community Festival and local sponsors. The popular festival will be held in March of 2026 at Waterfront Park.
More details about the scholarships at www.projectscholars.org with details about the festival at www.pigonthepond.org.
